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Dental exams are not painful. Especially if you have your teeth checked on a regular basis. But many people report feeling some pain after a deep dental cleaning. This can put them off from getting the procedure.
This is most unfortunate as dental cleaning helps fight periodontitis. This disease causes gums to pull away and teeth to fall out. It’s one of the biggest dental health issues affecting adults. A CDC report stated that about 47% of adults 30 years old and above have some form of periodontitis.
The best dentist in Orlando, Florida will tell you that you need to have a regular dental cleaning. It’s one of the most effective ways to reverse periodontal disease in its early stages. But they will also admit that patients can experience pain after the procedure. There are steps you can take to make it bearable. Here’s how to relieve pain after a dental cleaning.
Give Your Dentist a Heads Up
It’s always a good idea to talk to your health provider about your concerns. Many patients have an abiding fear of dentists. Discussing the procedure beforehand and asking questions can help ease it. You can also ask your dentist for advice on what to expect.
It’s always a best practice to tell your dentist of any pain you experience. They can take it a little slower during the examination. There are many reasons why someone has sensitive teeth.
Take a Pill
There’s no reason to suffer a toothache after a dental cleaning. It’s why dentists suggest taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These pain relievers are effective in relieving minor aches. Advil, Motrin, and Tylenol are the more known brands. You can buy these over the counter.
Brush with the Right Toothpaste
There are also certain kinds of toothpaste that can help reduce the tenderness of the gums. Look for ones with potassium nitrate. These can lessen sensitivity and provide pain relief while your gums are healing.
Rinse Your Mouth
Gums can sometimes become inflamed after a trip to an emergency dental clinic. An antimicrobial mouthwash can reduce swelling. Rinse your mouth with it several times a day. You can also stir in some rock salt with warm water. Gargle with this saltwater solution to clean your mouth. It also gets inflammation under control.
Drink Honey Water
Honey water is also a good option in this situation. Mix a teaspoon or two of honey in warm water. Drink it three times a day and the discomfort from the dental cleaning will go away. Honey can soothe away any sensitivity and pain.
Don’t Use Toothbrushes with Hard Bristles
Dentists recommend that children use a toothbrush with soft bristles. It’s effective in getting rid of food bits and stains. But it’s gentle enough so you can brush near the gum line without experiencing irritation. This type of toothbrush is also good for adults. You should avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes. It can be too harsh on gums and the tooth’s enamel.
Think Before You Eat
You should also pay more attention to your meals after a deep dental cleaning. You should opt for soft but nutrient-filled food. Eggs, smoothies, and soft vegetables are good. Mac and cheese are always welcome.
Avoid crunchy and chewy food for about a week after teeth cleaning. Your gums are still healing and doing a lot of chewing will only lead to pain.
Popular Questions About Dental Cleaning Procedure
Will it hurt?
Dental cleaning procedures aren’t painful. Your dentist will only remove tartar and plaque. These are germs that cling to the teeth’s surface. It entails breaking down these deposits and removing them. You will feel some vibrations and a bit of scraping. Drilling or excavating the teeth is off the table. You don’t need to worry about that. Especially since your dentist will give you a mild anesthetic.
You will feel some sensitivity in your teeth and gums after a dental cleaning though. This will go away in a few hours. You can take a pain pill if it bothers you. You should also refrain from brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush.
How many times do I need to see my dentist for this?
This will depend on your dentist and the state of your teeth. You can finish the entire process in one visit. That is if you only have a mild accumulation of tartar or plaque. Serious tartar buildup and gingivitis will take longer. You may need to come back a few times to get the dentist’s approval for the dental cleaning.
Does everyone need dental cleaning?
Everybody should have their teeth cleaned by a professional. Young children and teenagers are not an exception. Nor are senior citizens. Having a thorough dental cleaning is the best way to prevent many oral problems. The procedure can stop bad breath and gingivitis. It can prevent tooth decay and tooth loss.
Can I stop flossing after a dental cleaning?
Getting a thorough dental cleaning is not an excuse to stop flossing. You still need to do it since it helps remove food particles stuck between your teeth. Food that remains between the teeth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. It’s because these particles feed harmful germs into your mouth.
It’s vital that you learn how to floss. It takes practice and patience before you can master it. But you will enjoy it in the long run.
Using the Best Technology to Make You Smile
The team at Dentistry of Orlando will help bring healthy teeth and beautiful smiles to your life. Our company is one of the top dentist clinics in Florida. We leverage today’s technology to provide you with the best dental treatment. We do general dentistry and cosmetic dental procedures. We’re also here for you during emergencies and offer same-day appointments. Call us at (407) 249-9292 or at (407) 851-5555. You can also message our Avalon office at avalon@dentistryoforlando.com. Our Hansel office email is hansel@dentistryoforlando.com.
