My teeth hurt after cleaning

Tooth sensitivity is a common but unpleasant problem, involving discomfort or pain in one or several teeth. Sometimes, people report tooth sensitivity after a dental cleaning lynnwood wa. Since your dental hygienist cleans your teeth more deeply than you can at home while flossing and brushing, some discomfort can be understandable and will usually subside within a few days. Otherwise, dental sensitivity can be caused by the gums receding, allowing the roots of the tooth to be exposed. While your teeth are protected by a layer of sturdy enamel, the roots of the teeth don’t have this protective enamel layer, and they are therefore very sensitive. If the sensitive root or channels leading to the tooth’s nerve center are exposed, even just a little bit, this can cause a great deal of sensitivity, or even pain, when such stimuli as pressure or extreme temperature reach the tooth’s nerve.

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem with many potential causes. Many people experience tooth sensitivity from brushing their teeth too forcefully, or from using a hard-bristled toothbrush. It’s important to brush gently and use a soft-bristled brush. Some people experience sensitivity because tartar and plaque build up and lead to gum disease and receding gums. Some people grind their teeth, which can cause sensitivity, or have broken or cracked teeth, which may degrade the protective enamel. Sometimes, dental procedures, like capping, whitening, or fillings can cause dental sensitivity; sometimes, a professional dental cleaning can cause dental sensitivity. Additionally, diet can affect dental sensitivity, as dental enamel may be degraded by acidic foods, and sensitive teeth may then be affected by extreme temperatures. Other things, like extensive mouthwash use, can damage tooth enamel and exacerbate tooth sensitivity. These causes for sensitive teeth are as varied as they are uncomfortable, but, fortunately, in most cases, there are preventative techniques and available treatments

Proper, regular dental care is the best way to prevent dental sensitivity. Use a soft toothbrush to brush gently but thoroughly at least twice a day, and be sure to floss daily. Your dentist may give you some guidelines on how to brush properly, which is an important way to prevent gum recession and maintain strong gums and teeth, as overly forceful brushing can cause the gums to recede or further damage already receding gums. If you already suffer from dental sensitivity, there are still ways to lessen its frequency and intensity. Be careful to brush gently, and try using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth. You may also want to use a fluoride mouth rinse to help fortify the enamel surface of the teeth, and forego overly acidic food and beverages. Finally, use a desensitizing toothpaste for a few weeks prior to having your teeth professionally cleaned. Ask your dentist for a recommendation, and be sure to notify your dentist if you suffer from sensitive teeth. There are many things dentists can do, in addition to a few small lifestyle alterations on your part, to help desensitize your teeth and restore or repair the protective enamel that keeps them strong and healthy. Overall, though, preventative care is the best defense against dental sensitivity.

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