What are the Side Effects of Teeth Cleaning?

Even with diligent flossing, brushing, mouthwash, and regular dental visits, plaque and tartar can still accumulate on teeth. To get rid of these deposits, Ammons Dental By Design offers professional teeth cleaning, but this procedure cannot take the place of regular dental maintenance. Plaque, a bacterial biofilm, forms on various surfaces of teeth and along the gum line, leading to tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontitis.

Tartar, or dental calculus, results from the interaction of saliva chemicals with plaque and can cause further staining and discoloration. Deep cleanings, also known as periodontal scaling and root planing, address plaque and tartar on visible tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line. Even though routine cleanings are essential for preserving dental health, it's critical to be aware of any possible adverse effects, like gum inflammation and tooth sensitivity, that may arise from teeth cleaning.

1. Sensitive Teeth 

If your teeth have accumulated tartar and plaque over an extended period, removing this buildup can expose the previously covered surfaces. This exposure may lead to increased sensitivity to temperature changes and certain foods. This sensitivity is typically temporary and should diminish within a few days as your teeth adjust to their newly cleaned state.

2. Sore Gums 

During a professional cleaning, plaque and tartar are removed from the surfaces of your teeth and beneath the gumline. This process can sometimes cause temporary soreness in your gums. If you experience gum soreness, it can often be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers and saltwater rinses. This discomfort usually resolves within a week to ten days.

3. Bleeding Gums 

In cases where significant plaque and tartar have built up, particularly with advanced periodontal disease, you might notice some minor bleeding during or after your cleaning. This bleeding is generally brief and will subside as your gums heal. However, if the bleeding is excessive or persistent, it’s important to consult your dentist for further evaluation.

4. Swollen Gums

The cleaning process can cause temporary gum swelling as deposits are removed. This swelling should diminish on its own within a few days. In rare instances, persistent swelling could indicate an infection, which may require antibiotic treatment prescribed by your dentist.

5. Newly Visible Gaps 

After a thorough cleaning, you might notice gaps between your teeth that were previously filled with plaque and tartar. These gaps are not caused by the cleaning but are revealed as the deposits are removed. Over time, these spaces may become less noticeable as your gums heal and adjust.

To minimize the risk of side effects following a teeth cleaning, consider these practical tips:

• Maintain Regular Dental Checkups: Regular visits to your dentist help manage plaque and tartar buildup, making each cleaning session less intensive and reducing potential discomfort.
• Practice Gentle Home Care: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques to avoid aggravating sensitive areas and reduce gum irritation.
• Use Desensitizing Toothpaste: Try desensitizing toothpaste that you may buy over-the-counter if you have sensitive teeth.
• Avoid Irritants: To prevent sensitivity for a few days after cleaning, avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks.
• Apply Cold Compresses: To manage swelling, use a cold compress on the affected area.

While most side effects are mild and resolve on their own, consult your dentist if you experience:

• Severe or persistent pain
• Excessive or prolonged bleeding
• Swelling that does not improve
• Difficulty opening your mouth

At Ammons Dental By Design, we are committed to your comfort and well-being throughout your dental care. If you have any concerns or encounter unusual side effects, please reach out to us. Our team is here to provide exceptional care and support for all your dental needs.

Understanding the potential side effects of teeth cleaning can help you manage any temporary discomfort and ensure a smoother recovery process. At Ammons Dental By Design, we are committed to providing safe, effective, and comfortable dental cleanings. You may profit worry-free from a bright, healthy smile by keeping yourself informed and maintaining open lines of communication with your dentist.

For more information or to schedule your next teeth cleaning appointment, contact us today. Your oral health is our top priority!

Dental appointments may sometimes result in temporary symptoms such as discomfort or flu-like feelings after a cleaning. Fortunately, these effects are usually short-lived and can be effectively managed with self-care practices and over-the-counter pain relief medications.

However, thoroughly cleaning your teeth at least twice a day is more crucial than the type of toothbrush you use.

When this buildup is removed, any existing looseness may become more apparent. Consequently, teeth may feel loose following a deep cleaning. However, they are not loosened or dislodged by the cleaning process itself.