I Haven’t Had a Teeth Cleaning in a While; Do They Hurt?

Many people are anxious about going to the dentist, and this can keep some of them from going to the office for routine checkups and cleanings. If you’re returning to the dentist’s office after an extended time away, you might not be quite sure what to expect during your appointment. Here are some tips to help you prevent discomfort as well as information about what your dentist will do to keep you comfortable.

What Can My Dentist Do to Keep Me Comfortable?

Dentists are used to nervous patients and are trained to be receptive to their needs. Communicating clearly with your dentist can give them the information they need to keep you comfortable. This can mean using a tool from a different angle or using topical anesthetics. In some cases, they may use oral conscious sedation treatments to help you relax in the chair. These leave the patient conscious, alert, and responsive enough to answer any questions but make them less sensitive and more relaxed. However, such a patient will require a ride home after their appointment.

What Can I Do to Prevent Pain During a Dental Cleaning?

The best thing you can do to minimize any discomfort in the dentist’s chair is to practice excellent oral hygiene at home. Your daily regimen should involve brushing twice, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash. The logic here is simple: If your teeth are already pretty clean, your dentist doesn’t have to do as much to finish the job.

If you want a little extra protection against discomfort at the dentist’s office, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever like aspirin or ibuprofen before your appointment. You might also want to bring headphones so the music can help distract you from your surroundings.

Any discomfort you may experience at the dentist’s office is negligible when compared to the miserable pain of a toothache or advanced gum disease. Along with good dental hygiene, regular dental appointments are a crucial part of keeping your teeth healthy for life. It’s actually quite admirable that you are going back after a long time away.

About the Author

Dr. George R. Stoddard earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and has more than twenty-five years of experience in the dental field. There’s nothing he loves more about his profession than helping his patients enjoy smiling again, but he greatly enjoys golf when he’s out of the office. His practice in Longview, TX offers preventative, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry in addition to oral conscious sedation treatments. For more information on staying comfortable in the dentist’s chair, contact his office online or dial (903) 753-9758.