Is Deep Teeth Cleaning Painful?
Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is one of the most common procedures used to treat periodontal disease. Although it is very effective and crucial for oral health, many patients are concerned that it can be painful. The question about pain is understandable, since the procedure involves cleaning the teeth and roots of accumulated tartar and bacteria, often below the gum line. But is there really anything to be afraid of?
What is deep cleaning?
The procedure consists of two stages: subgingival scaling, which removes bacterial deposits and tartar from the gum pockets, and root planing, which involves removing roughness from the surface of the teeth's roots. The goal is to stop the inflammation and allow the gums to reattach to the tooth surface.
Because the procedure goes below the gum line and affects areas that are usually insensitive to everyday stimuli, it is possible to feel discomfort or pain, especially if the pockets are deep and the gums are inflamed.
Does it hurt during the procedure?
Most patients do not feel much pain during the procedure, because in the vast majority of cases, local anesthesia is used. The doctor injects an anesthetic (e.g., lidocaine) around the treated teeth, which effectively blocks the pain. The patient may feel slight pressure, vibration, or coldness of the tools, but should not feel any actual pain.
For people with a lower pain threshold or high tooth sensitivity, an additional anesthetic spray or gel can be used before the injection. The procedure is often divided into two visits, which allows for a shorter duration of a single session and minimizes discomfort.
What happens after the procedure?
Although the procedure itself is usually painless, tenderness, swelling, and sensitivity may occur after the procedure. This is a normal reaction of the body to mechanical cleaning and will disappear within a few days.
Typical symptoms after the procedure include:
- pain in the gums when touched or brushed,
- sensitivity of the teeth to cold, heat, and sweets,
- slight bleeding from the gums,
- a feeling of "looser teeth" - temporary, resulting from the removal of inflammation and shrinkage of the gums.
The doctor may recommend over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen, and special antibacterial rinses that support healing and reduce the risk of recurrence of infection.
How to relieve pain and speed up recovery?
- Apply a cold compress - applying it to the cheek after the procedure will reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
- Avoid hard and hot foods – for a few days, it is best to eat soft, lukewarm meals.
- Rinse your mouth as recommended by your dentist – chlorhexidine rinse is most often recommended.
- Brush your teeth gently – use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol – they can delay healing and intensify inflammation.
When to see a dentist again?
If the pain after the procedure does not subside for more than 5-7 days, the gums are very swollen, and the bleeding is getting worse, it is worth going back to the office. Rarely, but it does happen that a secondary infection may occur, which must be treated.
In Conclusion
Deep teeth cleaning does not have to be painful. Thanks to modern methods of anesthesia and the experience of dentists, the procedure itself is usually comfortable. Any pain after the procedure is temporary and can be controlled with simple methods. The benefits of the procedure - healthy, strong teeth and no periodontal disease - definitely outweigh the temporary discomfort. For many patients, this is the first step towards better oral health - and it is worth taking, so call us today!