Many people have anxiety about sitting in the dentist’s chair and miss their routine checkups and cleanings as a result. It’s important to have one every 6 months to prevent problems like cavities or gum disease. Plus, it allows your dentist to thoroughly scrub your teeth and clear away any plaque buildup that you might not be able to see or reach when brushing at home. If it’s been a while since yours have been professionally polished, you might worry that you’ll experience discomfort during the process. Keep reading to learn more about what to expect so you can set your mind at ease!
Do Dental Cleanings Hurt?
The truth is, if it’s been a while since you’ve had your smile treated by a skilled hygienist, then you might experience some discomfort. This is because there’s a greater likelihood that you’ve developed tartar on your teeth, which can’t be removed by routine brushing and flossing at home. If plaque buildup is left unaddressed, it can eventually calcify into this hard substance. The pressure of removing it can leave your pearly whites feeling extra sensitive afterward.
Plus, your teeth will be thoroughly flossed which can leave your gums feeling sore if you don’t clean them daily.
How Can I Prevent Discomfort During a Dental Cleaning?
The more regularly you brush and floss your teeth, and the more frequently you see your dentist, the less likely you are to experience any soreness due to a dental cleaning. If you can floss at home without aching or bleeding, then your gums are already somewhat desensitized. You may not have as much of an issue as a result.
Some additional steps you can take to reduce any potential reaction include:
- Taking a pain reliever before and after your appointment. It’s usually safe to take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or Tylenol before and after your dental cleaning to reduce your body’s inflammatory reaction.
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste. You can find options that numb your gums so that they aren’t as easily hurt.
- Ask about sedation. Your dentist has options like oral conscious sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) that can keep you calm but conscious if you’re still overly anxious.
Finally, it can be helpful to find the right dentist or hygienist. If your dental team is less friendly or communicative when you express your concerns to them, then it might be worth finding a provider who is more willing to work with you.
Now that you know more about what to anticipate, you’ll be fully prepared for your next appointment!
About the Author
Dr. Natalya Ramsay believes in providing comfortable, pain-free, and personalized solutions to meet all of your oral care needs. She completed her pre-doctoral education at Portland State University and then earned her degree in General Dentistry at the Oregon Health and Science University School of Dentistry. Since then, she has continued her education to stay on top of recent advancements in dental technology and techniques, so you’re sure to receive the most current treatments available. She also offers multiple forms of sedation to help you stay relaxed throughout your appointment. To schedule your next visit, you’re welcome to contact the office on the website or by calling (503) 472-1402.