How to Relieve Pain After Dental Deep Cleaning?

Are you experiencing pain after a deep dental cleaning? If yes, then rest assured as our Sugar Land dentists are here to tell you “How to relieve pain after a dental cleaning.” So, let’s get started!

But before we jump straight into ways to relieve pain, first, let’s discuss what deep cleaning is.

Deep Cleaning – Overview

Dental deep cleaning comprises two parts: scaling and root planing. You may need a deep cleaning to treat gum infection, attachment loss, gum recession, and avert tooth loss. As the name says, during deep cleaning, your dentist will clean your teeth deeply.

Scaling is the first part of the deep cleaning procedure, which is a standard process. It is typically a part of regular dental cleaning. But when this process is followed by root planning, the procedure is known as deep cleaning. During this, your dentist or periodontist will level your tooth’s roots to reattach your tooth with gums.

Furthermore, this highly effective procedure cleanses and removes tartar. This way, the pockets between your gums and teeth are reduced. It also helps in reversing the early stages of gum diseases. The only downside to this procedure is you may experience some pain after the treatment.

Ways to Relieve Pain after Deep Cleaning Procedure

Although it is possible to experience pain after deep cleaning, the procedure is quite comfortable. Before the treatment starts, dentists numb patients’ mouths with local anesthesia. This way, you won’t feel any pain during the process. However, you may feel some discomfort when the sedatives wear off, which can be remedied easily by following these steps:

You can have over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen if you encounter pain after the procedure.

Rinse or gargle with lukewarm saltwater or antimicrobial mouthwash a few times a day. This will reduce swelling and keep your gums clean.

Let your mouth have a good rest for the first few days. This will allow you to recover quickly.

You should avoid consuming hard-to-chew foods for at least a week. Instead, you can have nutrient-rich soft foods.

If you feel tenderness, use desensitizing toothpaste with potassium nitrite. This will help in the healing process.

Even if you don’t feel pain, it is essential to follow good oral hygiene practices. This way, you can prevent most oral complications, like bacteria buildup that often cause infection and pain.

What to Expect After Deep Cleaning

Patients often experience teeth sensitivity for a few days after deep cleaning, which isn’t a problem and tells that the cleaning was comprehensive. Your gums can take around 4 to 7 days to heal completely. During this period, you should expect minor swelling and some bleeding. Swelling or bleeding is a natural response when the roots are exposed. This often results in teeth sensitivity.

So, it is advisable to avoid eating too hot and too cold foods during your healing period. This will make sure you get a smooth recovery without worsening sensitivity. If the pain worsens or you need professional advice, you can always contact Smiles on Greatwood Dentistry.