A professional dental cleaning removes any build-up of tartar and plaque. Using special tools hygienists will scrape any hard build-up off your enamel and gums. Many people report feeling coldness or sensitivity after a professional clean. However this is completely normal and is confirmed by dentists.

Many people will feel sensitivity after their root surfaces have been exposed and their gums become inflamed. Dentists will do everything they can to make sure that you are as comfortable as possible during your prophylaxis. Knowing why you may feel sensitivity can help put your mind at ease.

Why Might You Feel Sensitive After a Prophylaxis?

Your teeth have several layers which help protect your inner nerves. The outer layer of your teeth (your crown) are protected by enamel, and the roots are protected by cementum. If you suffer from periodontal disease or brush your teeth too hard your gums may recede, exposing the sensitive dentine tubes.

  • The plaque and tartar will create a barrier protecting your dentine.

  • During your hygienist appointment your hygienist will clean away any plaque/tartar.

  • This can cause your dentine to be very sensitive to hot/cold or sweet foods.

  • During the cleaning your gums may become irritated causing increased sensitivity to your nerves.

Scaling and root planing go deeper than just the surface of your teeth. Those who suffer from moderate to severe periodontitis will feel increased sensitivity. As the plaque is removed suddenly there will be a rapid increase in sensitivity as your nerves are exposed. This will subside once your pellicle layers have reformed.

Why Must Health Information Be Accurate?

Dentists will always give patients advice based on periodontal science. Education is key when it comes to managing your prevention. This will help ensure you are confident with any treatment you receive.

Healthcare professionals will follow strict guidelines when carrying out treatments. Knowing why you may feel sensitivity will help you make an informed decision. Reliable sources will show how important it is to visit your dentist regularly. We will ensure our content is of a high standard to avoid any misinformation.

How Can You Manage Sensitivity After a Dental Cleaning?

There are ways you can manage sensitivity at home. Your dentist will advise you on what to do to help calm your sensitive nerves. Choosing the correct oral hygiene products will help speed up the desensitizing process. Small changes to your routine can help reduce sensitivity.

  • Use a toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth. Such as those with potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride.

  • Use a soft bristled toothbrush.

  • Avoid drinking anything very hot or cold for 48 hours.

  • Brush gently.

How Do Desensitizing Products Help Reduce Sensitivity?

Desensitizing products will stop signals traveling along your tiny dentine tubes. Potassium nitrate will depolarize your nerves stopping any pain signals going to your brain. Fluoride will strengthen your remaining teeth and block any exposed areas. Using these regularly will help keep you comfortable.

When Should You See Your Dentist About Sensitivity?

Sensitivity should last between 3-5 days. If you are still feeling pain then there could be an issue. Your dentist will need to check if you have a crack in your enamel, open margins or decay in your roots. Early intervention will help to prevent small issues becoming serious.

  • If you are still feeling pain after 2 weeks.

  • If you are experiencing sharp shooting pains then there could be some hidden damage.

  • If you are experiencing pain with no trigger then see your dentist.

Keeping in contact with your dentist will help ensure you have the best oral health. They can apply varnishes or bonding to any difficult areas. As they are professionals they will ensure they diagnose the issue and treat you safely. Visiting your dentist will help to ensure your teeth stay healthy in the long term.