Dental cleanings are not only important, they are a must. Routine cleanings at a dental clinic must be part of your oral hygiene routine because dentists and oral hygienists use special tools and techniques to remove plaque and clean your teeth. They will remove plaque from the hard-to-reach areas your toothbrush cannot access and will make sure your teeth and gums are healthy. Even if you follow a strict oral hygiene routine, it is still a must that you schedule professional dental cleanings twice a year.
Many people fear the dentist and postpone their dental appointments. While feelings of nervousness are common, you cannot let your anxiety stop you from attending your appointments. Your oral health is directly linked to your overall health, and routine cleanings will help you maintain a beautiful smile.
Many people experience tooth sensitivity after a dental cleaning, and this may cause some patients to delay their next cleaning appointment to avoid this awful feeling. Tooth sensitivity can be painful, and it can cause discomfort in one or more teeth, but this is normal after cleaning because the hygienist or dentist will provide your teeth with a deep clean. Their cleaning method is different from your brushing and flossing techniques at home, and this is why some patients report tooth sensitivity after a dental cleaning.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
When gums recede to expose the underlying roots of the tooth, tooth sensitivity can occur. The roots of your tooth are not covered by hard enamel and are very sensitive. There are thousands of tiny channels leading to the pulp with each tooth which is the tooth’s nerve centre, and if any of these channels become exposed, the patient will experience sensitivity, and this is true even if a channel becomes the slightest bit exposed. This would allow heat, coldness and pressure to reach the nerve in your tooth, and you would feel a great deal of sensitivity.
In addition to experiencing tooth sensitivity after a dental cleaning, there are many other causes, including:
- Nerve damage in your teeth.
- Brushing too hard: There is a proper brushing technique, and if you do this too aggressively or apply too much pressure when brushing, you may experience tooth sensitivity. The same is true if you use a toothbrush with very hard bristles.
- Poor oral hygiene: If tartar and bacteria build up on your teeth, it can result in gum disease and gum recession, which will cause tooth sensitivity.
- Acidic Diet: Exposure to acidic foods and overstimulation by hot or cold beverages and foods can cause the enamel to erode, which may lead to tooth sensitivity.
- Dental procedures: Whitening, capping, fillings and dental cleanings may cause tooth sensitivity.
- Mouthwash: Long-term use of mouthwash may damage enamel and cause tooth sensitivity.
The causes of tooth sensitivity will vary from one person to another, and your dentist will find the cause specific to you. Once you are aware of this information, you can focus on prevention.
How to Treat Tooth Sensitivity
Good news—there are many ways to prevent and treat tooth sensitivity. This is a condition that is very common, and many patients will experience tooth sensitivity after dental cleaning or as a result of the causes listed above.
The best way to prevent tooth sensitivity is by taking good care of your gums and teeth. Practicing proper oral hygiene habits and using a soft-bristled toothbrush will help you maintain healthy gums that are strong, as will daily flossing. These practices will also help you avoid gum recession which will help prevent tooth sensitivity.
If you do experience sensitivity, there are certain steps you can take to help ease the pain. Using toothpaste specifically for sensitivity will help, as will brushing your teeth gently. You can clean your teeth without being aggressive, and a gentle touch will do the trick. Avoiding acidic foods and drinks will also help prevent tooth sensitivity, and using a fluoride mouth rinse to help remineralize and harden the surface of the tooth will help as well. Some dentists recommend using a desensitizing toothpaste 2 to 3 weeks before having your teeth cleaned.
Conclusion
Are you worried about tooth sensitivity after a dental cleaning? Tavistock Family Dentistry will discuss this matter, and our dentists will apply techniques to prevent pain and discomfort. If you are looking for a dentist near you in Tavistock, search no further and contact our office at any time to schedule a cleaning.
Our dentists will take the time to understand your fears and concerns, and we will assess the severity of your tooth sensitivity and decide the right treatment.
If you need an emergency dentist or it’s just time to schedule a dental tooth cleaning, contact our office today!
