Has it been a long time since you last went to the dentist? For most people, it is recommended to go to the dental office every six months. If your last dental visit was a while ago, you may have forgotten exactly what a teeth cleaning felt like which can bring about some anxiety. Some people avoid the dentist because they are worried that their visit will be painful. Fortunately, this isn’t something you should expect. Continue reading to learn more about teeth cleanings and how you can prevent discomfort.
What Does a Professional Cleaning Feel Like?
Dental cleanings shouldn’t be painful, but there can be a variety of factors that can increase your sensitivity. For example, if you have gum inflammation, tooth decay, or another symptom of a dental issue, you might experience some discomfort during the cleaning process. If you are feeling pain during your cleaning, this is something that you should discuss with your dentist. This way, they will know what steps to take to help you feel more comfortable throughout the duration of your visit.
How Can You Prevent Discomfort During a Dental Cleaning?
Here are some tips to help reduce sensitivity during your professional cleaning.
- OTC Pain Relivers: Ask your dentist if they think that you would benefit from taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen. It reduces the inflammatory reaction and helps to reduce discomfort.
- Numb the Area: If you are experiencing pain, ask the dental team if they can use a topical anesthesia. This helps to numb the area, giving you a more comfortable experience.
- Sensitivity Toothpaste: Pick a toothpaste that is made for people who have sensitive teeth. This helps to reduce discomfort, but it might take a few weeks for you to notice the difference.
- Oral Hygiene Routine: Brush and floss after meals. The cleaner your mouth is, the easier your cleaning will be.
- Brush Gently: Many people use too much pressure to brush their teeth. When you brush too hard, this can make your teeth more sensitive and damage them. Always use gentle, circular motions for the best possible clean.
- Try an Electric Toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes help people brush more gently because they do a lot of the work for you. If you tend to brush too hard, this could be a beneficial switch for you.
When you have your teeth cleaned by a hygienist, it shouldn’t be painful. By using the tips listed above and expressing your concerns with your dental team, your visit should be painless and easy!
About the Practice
At Moulton Dentistry of Hoover, Dr. Ethan Gunn and Dr. Marc Moulton work together to treat patients in the Birmingham community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about professional cleanings or to schedule your next appointment, visit their website or call (205) 988-3360.