Do you dread visiting your dentist for routine cleanings? You’re certainly not alone. Some patients have uncomfortable experiences and try to avoid them at all costs. However, any pain that occurs during the cleaning process is usually the result of other factors, such as gum inflammation, tooth decay, and sensitivity. Although it may seem counterintuitive, the more often you get cleanings, the less discomfort you should feel. Read on as your dentist in Temple explains why you shouldn’t wait too long between visits and tips to make your next cleaning more comfortable.
What Happens If You Avoid Your Routine Cleanings?
Teeth cleanings might be uncomfortable for some people, but the temporary discomfort is much better than the alternatives. Plaque, which develops when the bacteria in your mouth mixes with sugary or starchy foods, hardens into tartar if it’s not removed properly. As that builds up, gum disease can develop, leading to the tenderness often felt during cleanings. If periodontal disease goes untreated, it can evolve into a more advanced state and spread inflammation throughout the body. In a nutshell, postponing your routine visits can make cleanings more painful and lead to complications down the line.
How to Make Teeth Cleanings More Comfortable
Do you hate teeth cleanings? Here are a few ways you can make them more comfortable:
Take Over-the-Counter Medication
Before your appointment, take Advil to alleviate any discomfort you might experience. Take about 600 to 800mg an hour before your cleaning and again six hours after to help reduce an inflammatory reaction.
Use Desensitizing Toothpaste
Like flossing, professional cleanings can be uncomfortable if your gums are inflamed. Luckily, using desensitizing toothpaste can help relieve some of the discomfort you experience during your visit. Consider making it your new daily toothpaste!
Prevent Gum Recession
When your gums heal from inflammation, they recede, exposing the lower more sensitive parts of your tooth. This recession can increase your sensitivity towards not only cleanings but certain foods too. To prevent this from occurring, practice proper dental care and follow a healthy lifestyle!
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Do you practice good oral hygiene? To keep your mouth healthy, you should brush and floss after every meal, scrape your tongue, and rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash. Even though it’s often skipped, flossing is one of the most critical steps in your routine. It does 40% of the job in removing plaque, so skipping it can make cleanings more painful.
Avoid Overbrushing
Some people brush their teeth vigorously, thinking it’s the best way to keep their teeth shiny and clean. However, this technique can do more harm than good by damaging teeth and making them more sensitive. Make sure you’re following the proper brushing technique to prevent sensitivity!
As you can see, teeth cleanings do not have to hurt! If you’re nervous about your upcoming visit, use the tips outlined above to make it a much more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
About the Author
Dr. Manuel Pazmino earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University College of Dentistry. Because his parents have careers in dentistry, he feels like his destiny was to become a dentist himself. Dr. Pazmino believes routine cleanings and exams are crucial in maintaining good oral health. With proper dental care, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime! To schedule your teeth cleaning with Dr. Pazmino, visit our website or call (254) 778-3587.