Why Are My Teeth Sensitive After a Dental Cleaning?

A common problem some people experience following a dental cleaning is a feeling of dental sensitivity. While we recommend a dental cleaning every six months to protect your smile, you may feel apprehensive about sticking to this plan if you are worried about how your sensitive teeth will respond, especially if the pain persists for a few days afterward.

We get it. No one enjoys teeth pain, but the result of having regular checkups and dental cleanings is key to ensuring the long-term health of your teeth. The dental experts at Byers Station Dental in Chester Springs, PA are dedicated to giving you the best dental care with as much comfort as possible. Our dentists can offer you options on how to reduce the sensitivity of your teeth, so you don’t have to worry about pain during your dental visit.

The following are reasons why you may be experiencing sensitivity after a dental cleaning and what you can do to remedy the pain.

A dental cleaning is more intensive than normal home care

The most common reason for discomfort during a dental cleaning is because the patient has sensitive teeth. If that is the case, they are more prone to sensitivity following a dental cleaning because a professional dental cleaning is stronger than what patients experience with home dental care. One of our dental professionals will use various tools to clear plaque and bacteria, including a scaler that will scrape off tartar that has solidified over your teeth. A professional cleaning can also get deep into the root structure and under the gums to clear bacteria you cannot reach yourself.

Gum recession can also be a concern

Some patients may also experience gum recession following a treatment. Our dentists at Byers Station Dental can trim your gums in cases where they are growing over your teeth. Excess gums can cover parts of your enamel tissue and make it easier for bacteria to get stuck in those areas. The newly revealed parts of your teeth may experience some irritation and sensitivity because they haven’t been exposed in a while, but the trimming is necessary for protecting your smile.

How can you prevent pain after a dental cleaning?

We can help you keep your sensitivity issues under control after your dental cleaning. We may recommend you take over-the-counter pain-reducing medications, such as Tylenol, before your visit. Sedation may also work before your appointment begins to help you relax and feel less irritation during and after your appointment.

Following your dental cleaning, we urge you not to brush with too much force to prevent any further irritation. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are also a good idea. We can also recommend you use specialized toothpaste for sensitive teeth following the visit. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth contains fewer ingredients that might irritate exposed parts of your teeth, including fewer abrasives or sugar-based compounds. Sensodyne is a popular toothpaste brand for patients with sensitive teeth after a cleaning, but other brands like Crest and Tom’s of Maine also offer options.

Contact us today for expert and comfortable dental care in Chester Springs, PA

You deserve the best support possible when looking for a dentist in Chester Springs who can provide a dental cleaning you can trust. Our experts at Byers Station Dental in Chester Springs, PA are available to support your dental cleaning needs. The team at Byers Station Dental provide a full-service approach to dental care for patients near Byers, Lionville, Eagle, Exton, and Ludwigs Corner, PA. Visit us online to schedule an appointment for service.