Have you ever been to your dentist for professional teeth cleaning? If not and you’re planning for it, you should know that your teeth might hurt or may experience some discomfort after a dental cleaning, which is not so unusual. Tooth sensitivity, or pain in the teeth, is very common after a deep cleaning.
But what is the reason?
When your dentist or hygienist conducts a deep cleaning, your teeth have to bear an immense pressure and tolerate tools that can irritate the gums. All of this is out of the way than your daily brushing and flossing.
So, what can you do about it?
Below is some more information on why your teeth might be hurting after routine cleaning, and tips to help you deal with the pain.
What are the causes of tooth sensitivity?
One of the biggest reasons your teeth hurt after a dental cleaning is tooth sensitivity.
Your teeth are covered and protected by a hard enamel, which is the hardest tissue in our body. The main cause of tooth sensitivity is when the gums pull back and recede, exposing the root of the tooth. This root area of the tooth is not covered by hard enamel and is therefore very sensitive.
Hot and cold, foods and beverages, and chewing pressure can easily activate sensitivity and send pain signals to the tooth’s root.
What are the specific things that can cause sensitivity?
Here are a few:
- Brushing too Rigorously: This is a common cause of sensitivity, and you may have experienced it before.
- Practicing Poor Oral Hygiene: Skipping on oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing can allow plaque and bacteria to build up, eventually resulting in gum recession.
- Undergoing Specific Dental Procedures: Any extra work, including pressure and the use of dental tools, can cause sensitivity. Dental works that can especially hurt your teeth are whitening, cleaning, or fillings.
- Taking Diet that May Affect Teeth: Foods having high doses of acids can cause the tooth enamel to erode, leading to the root’s exposure. Moreover, excessive consumption of hot or cold drinks can also cause sensitivity.
How to treat sensitive teeth?
If you are a victim of regular tooth sensitivity, it may be relieving to know that this is a common experience, and it is possible to treat this discomfort.
Taking good care of your teeth and gums through regular brushing and flossing is the finest way to prevent tooth sensitivity. This may include gently brushing using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
If you have tooth sensitivity, here are some tips to help with the ache:
- Use sensitivity specific toothpaste: Many toothpaste brands are available on the market, made specifically for sensitive teeth. Give them a try.
- Brush gently from now on: Making this small change in your daily hygiene routine can help you ease your discomfort.
- Use fluoride mouth rinse: Fluoride helps to remineralize and harden teeth surface.
If your sensitivity is hurting you, let your dentist know. He or she will examine your tooth sensitivity and will suggest some strategies to help eradicate the pain.
Our dentists at Pearl Dentistry are waiting to serve you. Schedule an appointment.
