WHY DO MY TEETH HURT AFTER DENTAL CLEANING?

If you just had your first dental cleaning in mobile in a while and you are experiencing some discomfort or pain, you should know this is common. Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is when an individual experiences pain or discomfort in one or more teeth. It is fairly common for tooth sensitivity to be reported after a dental cleaning. If you think about this, this makes sense. During a dental cleaning your hygienist or dentist will work on your teeth, applying more pressure and using tools that can irritate yours gums. This is more contact than you are used to from your daily brushing and flossing. Here is more information about why you may experience pain after a routine dental cleaning and tips to help you deal with the discomfort.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Part of the reason you may have discomfort after a dental cleaning is you may have some general tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is caused by your gums pulling back and the underlying root of the tooth being exposed. This area of the tooth is not covered by hard enamel like the part of your tooth that is normally exposed and therefore it can be incredibly sensitive. This part of the tooth, is directly linked to the central root of the tooth. Things like heat, cold, and pressure can trigger sensitivity and send signals to the root of the tooth.

What causes sensitivity? There are many things that can cause sensitivity, these include:

  • Brushing with too much force: This is a very common cause of sensitivity. In fact about 2/3 of adults apply too much pressure when brushing.
  • Poor oral hygiene: Skipping on daily hygiene habits can allow tartar and bacteria to build up over time and eventually result in gum recession.
  • Damaged to a tooth: A cracked, broken, or tooth that is ground down could potentially result in nerve and root exposure creating sensitivity.
  • Dental procedures: Any amount of extra work in your mouth, or the application of dental materials can cause sensitivity, especially whitening, cleaning, capping, or filling.
  • Diet: Certain acidic foods can cause enamel to erode which can lead to exposure. Additionally, too much consumption of hot or cold beverages and foods can also cause sensitivity.

Treating Tooth Sensitivity

If you suffer from regular tooth sensitivity, it is relieving to know that it is common and there are many tips to help treat it. As far as prevention, taking good care of your gums and teeth through the practice of good daily hygiene is the ultimate step to prevent tooth sensitivity. But remember, using a soft tooth brush, and not brushing too hard are a part of this. If you already have sensitive teeth here are some tips to help with the discomfort:

  • Use toothpaste specifically made for sensitive teeth.
  • Make sure you are brushing gently.
  • Try using fluoride mouth rinse. This will help remineralize and harden the surface of the teeth.

Lastly, let your dentist know during your next visit. They will help assess the level of the sensitivity, and will suggest some strategies to help eliminate the discomfort and remineralize your teeth. They also may have a different approach to cleaning that makes it less uncomfortable for you.

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