Does deep cleaning hurt?

Does a deep cleaning hurt?

Healthline says scaling and root planing can cause discomfort, so a topical or local anesthetic is typically used to numb the gums. Cleveland Clinic says the gums are numbed beforehand and that antibiotics may be placed around the roots or prescribed to take by mouth. Its page does not describe pain during the procedure itself. Tell your dentist if you feel pain, because more numbing can be given, and ask beforehand about options if you are anxious or have sensitive teeth.

How long does soreness last afterwards?

Cleveland Clinic says gums may be tender for a couple of days, which over-the-counter pain relievers can help, and that teeth may feel wiggly or sensitive to hot and cold, usually for a month or two. Healthline says pain may last one to two days and sensitivity up to a week, that the gums may swell or bleed slightly, and that risks usually resolve within about five to seven days, though extensive cases may take a few weeks. The sources differ on how long sensitivity lasts, so call your dentist if it is severe or is not improving.

Is deep cleaning painful for everyone?

Not equally. How much it hurts depends on how deep the gum pockets are, how inflamed the gums are and how sensitive your teeth are. Deeper, more inflamed areas can be tender, which is why dentists numb the gums and sometimes treat one side of the mouth at a time. Cleveland Clinic says the procedure may be completed in one visit or split into two, with half the teeth cleaned each time, depending on your situation, preferences and insurance.

What helps afterwards?

Healthline suggests soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce or mashed potatoes for a few days, avoiding very hot or cold foods and drinks, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, warm salt water rinses if your dentist recommends it, brushing twice a day with a soft brush and flossing once a day. Cleveland Clinic says most people return to their normal routine the same day, no incisions or stitches are needed, and you can eat and drink as long as it does not hurt. Follow your dentist's instructions.

Does scaling cause sensitive teeth?

Yes, often temporarily. Cleveland Clinic lists temporary tooth sensitivity and gum tenderness among the possible issues, and its sensitive teeth page says recent dental work such as cleanings can cause short-term sensitivity. Gum recession can also follow, as Cleveland Clinic explains that swollen gums shrink after the infection clears and more of the roots may show, which makes teeth more sensitive. Desensitizing toothpaste and a soft brush can help, according to Cleveland Clinic.

Risks to know about

Cleveland Clinic says complications are rare and include some normal bleeding, gum recession, infection, which antibiotics may reduce, loose teeth that typically resolve as gums tighten, temporary sensitivity and gum tenderness. Healthline says deep cleaning does not promise that gums will reattach or that receding gums will be fully resolved, infection is possible mainly for people with weakened immune systems, and nerve damage is rare. Tell your dentist about your health conditions beforehand.

When to call your dentist

Cleveland Clinic says to contact your dentist for bleeding that will not stop, pain that medication does not relieve or severe swelling. Healthline says to talk to your dentist if swelling, bleeding or pain continues for more than a week. Our guide on what to expect after deep cleaning covers aftercare.

Questions to ask your dentist

Ask before your appointment.

• How will you numb my gums, and what if I feel pain?
• Will the cleaning be done in one visit or several?
• How long will soreness and sensitivity last for me?
• Which pain relief and mouth rinse should I use afterwards?
• When should I come back for a recheck?

Frequently asked questions