Sensitivity After Tartar Cleaning | LYGOS DENTAL

Q: How long does sensitivity after tartar cleaning last?

Usually lasts from a few days up to a week. If sensitivity after tartar cleaning persists, consult your dentist.

Sensitivity After Tartar Cleaning

In maintaining oral and dental health, regular dental check-ups are important, but tartar cleaning is also quite essential. However, some discomfort may occur after this procedure. Sensitivity after tartar cleaning is a common complaint among patients. In this article, we will thoroughly discuss the reasons for this sensitivity after tartar cleaning, how long it lasts, and ways to relieve it.

Why Does Sensitivity Occur After Tartar Cleaning?

Sensitivity after tartar cleaning is usually felt more intensely in areas where tartar buildup was heavy. There are several main reasons for this:

Gum Recession: If tartar extends below the gum line, cleaning can cause some gum recession. This exposes the tooth roots and leads to sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Loss of Protective Layer: The hardened plaque layer (tartar) protects the underlying tooth surface temporarily. When removed, the exposed tooth surface becomes more vulnerable to external stimuli, increasing sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Effect of Instruments: Ultrasonic devices and hand tools used during cleaning can microscopically affect the tooth surface, triggering sensitivity after tartar cleaning.

Due to these reasons, sensitivity after tartar cleaning is quite natural and usually temporary.

Is It Normal to Feel a Tingling or Soreness After Cleaning?

Yes, mild soreness and tingling sensations are common after tartar cleaning. During the procedure, gum tissues may experience slight trauma, or previously hidden cavities may become apparent. In this case, symptoms like:

may occur. These symptoms generally subside quickly. However, if the pain becomes severe or lasts longer than a week, consulting a dentist is necessary.

What Should Be Considered After Tartar Cleaning?

To avoid or minimize sensitivity after tartar cleaning, it is important to follow some key steps post-procedure:

Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks on the first day, as these can increase sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Practice gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding excessive pressure to reduce sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Stay away from acidic drinks like soda, which can further irritate the tooth surface and worsen sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Limit smoking and alcohol consumption as they slow down healing of oral tissues, prolonging sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Use saltwater rinses to soothe gums and speed up recovery from sensitivity after tartar cleaning.

Following these steps can help ease sensitivity after tartar cleaning.

How Can Sensitivity Be Reduced?

The following methods are effective in alleviating sensitivity after tartar cleaning:

Use Special Toothpastes: Sensitivity toothpastes available at pharmacies help protect tooth surfaces and block nerve endings, reducing sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Warm Saltwater Rinses: Gargling with saltwater several times a day supports gum health and reduces pain caused by sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride gels or varnishes applied by dentists strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Proper Nutrition: Avoid very hot, cold, or excessively sweet foods to aid healing and minimize sensitivity after tartar cleaning.

These methods can significantly reduce sensitivity after tartar cleaning within a few days.

What to Do If There Is Pain After Cleaning?

Sometimes, pain beyond sensitivity after tartar cleaning can occur. In that case:

Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be taken with a doctor’s approval to relieve pain caused by sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Consume soft foods and avoid hard or chewy items to avoid aggravating sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Apply a cold compress on the cheek to reduce pain related to sensitivity after tartar cleaning.
Seek professional help if the pain persists or worsens, as there may be an underlying problem beyond typical sensitivity after tartar cleaning.

Persistent pain should be taken seriously and a specialist should be consulted.

Does Tartar Cleaning Damage Tooth Enamel?

There is a common misconception that tartar cleaning damages tooth enamel. Scientifically, this is not true. In fact, if cleaning is neglected:

The instruments used target only the tartar. When applied correctly, enamel is not harmed. Therefore, sensitivity after tartar cleaning does not mean enamel damage. On the contrary, the procedure protects dental and gum health.

Sensitivity after tartar cleaning is common and usually short-lived. The causes are natural and temporary. With proper care, this period can be easily managed. If symptoms persist, seeing a dentist is important. Regular cleaning should not be neglected for a healthy smile.

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Sensitivity After Tartar Cleaning Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does sensitivity after tartar cleaning last?

Usually lasts from a few days up to a week. If sensitivity after tartar cleaning persists, consult your dentist.

Is pain normal after tartar cleaning?

Mild pain and sensitivity after tartar cleaning are common, but severe pain requires professional evaluation.

Does tartar cleaning damage tooth enamel?

No, when done correctly, it does not damage the enamel, and sensitivity after tartar cleaning is temporary.

What should be avoided after tartar cleaning?

Avoid very hot or cold foods, brush gently, stay away from acidic drinks to reduce sensitivity after tartar cleaning.

Which toothpastes are recommended for sensitivity?

Special toothpastes for sensitivity after tartar cleaning are recommended and available at pharmacies.