Dental cleaning typically shouldn’t hurt, although some patients may experience minor discomfort during the process. However, if you are experiencing significant pain during your dental cleaning, it could be due to a number of reasons:
- Gum disease: If you have gum disease, your gums may be sensitive and inflamed. This can make the dental cleaning process more painful.
- Tooth decay: If you have untreated tooth decay, your teeth may be more sensitive to the pressure and vibrations of the dental cleaning instruments.
- Sensitivity: Some people have naturally sensitive teeth, which can make the cleaning process uncomfortable.
- Infection: If you have an infection in your mouth, such as an abscess or a tooth infection, the dental cleaning process can exacerbate the pain.
- Anxiety: If you have anxiety about going to the dentist, you may clench your teeth or tense your jaw during the cleaning, which can cause discomfort.
It’s important to communicate with your dentist or hygienist if you are experiencing significant pain during your dental cleaning. They may be able to adjust the cleaning technique or recommend ways to reduce the discomfort, such as using numbing gel or taking a pain reliever before the appointment.
