Does It Hurt When the Dentist Cleans Your Teeth?

Your normally scheduled dental cleaning should not cause you pain. However, there can be complicating factors. Inflammation in the gums, tooth decay and other symptoms of oral disease can lead to increased sensitivity. This can cause pain when prodded during the cleaning process.

Do they numb you for teeth cleaning?

A deep cleaning usually involves the use of local anesthetic to keep you comfortable while the dental hygienist or dentist cleans underneath the gums. Your mouth will be numb to prevent the process from causing you any pain.

Why do dental cleanings hurt so bad?

During a cleaning your teeth can feel very sensitive—more so than usual—and it's because of gum disease. With gum disease your gums pull away from the teeth exposing the root of the tooth, which is much more sensitive to both touch, and hot and cold water.