It is recommended that you see your dentist every six months for routine cleanings and checkups. That being said, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only about 60-65% of adults have seen a dentist in the past year. There are a variety of reasons for this, including lack of dental insurance and fear of pain. If it has been a while since your last cleaning and checkup, you may be wondering if your upcoming visit will be painful? Fortunately, this shouldn’t be the case. Continue reading to learn what you can expect.
What Will Your Teeth Cleaning Feel Like?
Dental cleanings shouldn’t be painful, but there are a few factors that can increase your sensitivity. For example, if you have gum inflammation, tooth decay, or another oral health issue, you could have increased sensitivity in those areas, resulting in discomfort. If you ever feel any pain during your cleaning, don’t stay quiet about it. Let your hygienist and dentist know! This way, they will know which steps to take to help you feel more comfortable during your visit.
How Can You Prevent Sensitivity During Teeth Cleanings?
If you are prone to tooth sensitivity, here are some steps you may want to consider to reduce this:
- Ibuprofen: Ask your dentist if they think you would benefit from taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen, before your visit. This reduces the inflammatory reaction and helps to reduce discomfort.
- Numbing: If you are experiencing discomfort during your visit, ask the dental team if a topical anesthetic is an option. This helps to temporarily numb the area, giving you a more comfortable experience.
- Sensitivity Toothpaste: Next time you restock your oral hygiene products, look for a toothpaste that is made especially for sensitive teeth. After using it for a few weeks, you should notice a reduction of sensitivity.
- Oral Hygiene Routine: The cleaner that your mouth is, the easier and faster your cleaning will be. Remember to brush twice and floss every day to keep your smile fresh.
- Brush Carefully: Some people use too much pressure when they brush their teeth. This can make your teeth more sensitive and even cause damage. Use gentle, circular motions for the best possible clean.
- Electric Toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes can help you brush gently and effectively because they do a lot of the work for you. If you tend to brush too hard, you may want to make the switch.
Your upcoming dental visit shouldn’t be painful. By using the tips listed above and expressing your concerns with your dentist, your appointment will be a breeze!
About the Practice
At Painted Skies Dental Center, husband and wife, Dr. Natalie J. Ortiz and Dr. Ramon M. Ortiz are committed to providing quality dental care to people in the Las Cruces community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. For more information or to schedule a professional cleaning, visit their website or call (575) 521-8720.