{"id":3714,"date":"2020-10-21T09:51:31","date_gmt":"2020-10-21T13:51:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.opencare.com\/blog\/?p=3714"},"modified":"2021-02-23T11:52:53","modified_gmt":"2021-02-23T16:52:53","slug":"does-it-hurt-to-get-your-teeth-cleaned","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.opencare.com\/blog\/does-it-hurt-to-get-your-teeth-cleaned\/","title":{"rendered":"Does it hurt to get your teeth cleaned?"},"content":{"rendered":"Reading Time: <\/span> 6<\/span> minutes<\/span><\/span>

\"Dr.<\/picture><\/a><\/p>\n

Getting teeth cleaning, or \u201cscaling\u201d done by a professional is the most effective way to eliminate accumulated plaque and tartar. You run the risk of getting gum disease or other health conditions without regular cleanings. Research shows links between gum disease and diabetes, heart disease, stroke, respiratory illness, and other health risks.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But will your cleaning hurt? Well, that depends on a few factors. Keep reading to find out what occurs during a dental cleaning, the likelihood of experiencing pain, and how to prevent dental cleaning pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Happens at a Dental Cleaning Appointment?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Teeth cleanings are often completed by a dental hygienist. They will first examine your mouth with a small mirror and check for any signs of gingivitis (inflamed gums) or other potential issues. During the cleaning, your hygienist will use a small, metal scaler to remove tartar off your teeth, both above and below the gum line. They may also use an ultrasonic vibrating handpiece to loosen up tartar and plaque. Once your teeth are free of tartar, the hygienist will polish them to remove stain.<\/span><\/p>\n

The polishing paste has a gritty consistency to effectively remove stain. This is usually mint or berry flavoured. After a thorough polish, they will floss your teeth to remove any leftover plaque or toothpaste. This may be a bit more intense than your flossing sessions at home. Next, you will rinse out your mouth.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\t\t

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Due for a checkup?<\/h3>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Find a top rated dentist near you that takes your insurance.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Finally, your hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment. This is done if you have a history of cavities or have an increased risk of developing cavities. This comes in the form of a sticky paste, foam or rinse. It usually stays on for around one minute. The treatment protects your enamel to help resist cavities. This effect can last for several months.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Following a teeth cleaning, your teeth not only feel smooth, but the shiny surface makes it more challenging for plaque to build up. The frequency of dental cleanings is determined on an individual basis. If your gums are really healthy, your hygienist will suggest 6 month intervals. However, if you have signs of gum disease or \u201cperiodontitis,\u201d you may benefit from cleanings every 3-4 months. We suggest scheduling your next dental cleaning before you leave your dentist\u2019s office to ensure you stick to the recommended time frame.<\/span><\/p>\n

But is a Dental Cleaning Painful?<\/b><\/h2>\n

If you go to a professional regularly for teeth cleanings and you have no oral issues, your visit will probably not hurt. If you\u2019ve skipped a few cleanings, then you\u2019re likely experiencing some discomfort even when you brush at home. So yes, in this case, your cleaning could be painful.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, there are options for a pain-free cleaning, even if it has been a while!<\/span><\/p>\n

During the initial exam, your dentist or hygienist will take measurements of your gum pockets (the space under your gums where your floss slides under during flossing). During this procedure, your care provider will notice the level of discomfort you are experiencing. If they notice pain, severe bleeding, or heavy tartar buildup, you will be given the option of having your first cleaning completed with local anaesthetic, or dental freezing to numb your gums. This way, your hygienist will be able to do a thorough cleaning and ensure no tartar is left behind for optimal healing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If there is excessive tartar build up, your cleaning may be split into several appointments, with half your mouth frozen at each appointment. Once dental cleanings are a part of your regular routine, you may no longer require freezing for your cleanings.<\/span><\/p>\n

Some symptoms that would hint toward discomfort in an upcoming appointment could include inflammation in your gums, tooth decay, or sensitivity. If this is the case, it is important that you have an exam with the dentist to evaluate the presence of cavities or gum disease prior to your initial scaling.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

Gum disease, or Periodontitis, is the process in which plaque and bacteria buildup on your teeth, resulting in an inflammatory response in your body. Chronic inflammation will lead to the breakdown of the tissues supporting your gum and teeth. Untreated gum disease can result in severe bleeding, bad breath, gum infections, loosening teeth and eventually tooth loss. There is a documented link between uncontrolled periodontal disease and cardiovascular health and diabetes. Knowing the warning signs of gum disease can help you determine the urgency of your next dental appointment.<\/span><\/p>\n\t\t

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