Visiting the dentist is rarely a favorite activity, and many people get worried or even avoid their dental cleanings because they think they may be painful. Your dentist will always do everything they can to make your appointments enjoyable, but there are also some steps you can take to ensure better dental experiences. Read on to learn 5 simple ways to make your routine cleanings more comfortable!
#1. Visit Your Dentist More Frequently
Ironically, one of the best things you can do to experience less pain at the dentist’s office is to visit them more often. Without regular cleanings, you’re giving plaque and tartar a chance to buildup, which leads to extra scraping and cleaning. Plus, these appointments keep your gums healthy, making it less likely that they will become tender or swollen from infection.
#2. Brush & Floss Like a Pro
So you’re brushing and flossing – but are you doing it the right way? Make sure that you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each session. Angle your brush at 45-degrees on the gumline so that you remove pesky plaque and bacteria that cause inflammation. Additionally, floss once a day to remove lingering food debris from in between your teeth. This will prevent unnecessary discomfort when your hygienist flosses your teeth after cleaning.
#3. Get an Electric Toothbrush
It’s a proven fact that electric brushes remove more bacteria and plaque from the teeth and gums. Of course, plaque buildup is exactly what makes your dental cleanings less enjoyable. It may be a good time to upgrade your at-home oral healthcare and invest in an electric toothbrush. This is especially a good idea for people who have trouble reaching every area of their mouth.
#4. Use the Right Toothpaste
There are so many different types of toothpaste, and you should choose the kind that you use based on your needs. Do you have sensitive teeth? Use a desensitizing toothpaste so your cleanings are more comfortable. Are you at risk of gum disease? You can choose a toothpaste focused on periodontal health to keep your gums in good shape.
#5. Take Advil Beforehand
After using all the tips above, you can take an over-the-counter pain killer before your dental cleaning as an extra precaution. Consider taking it about an hour prior to your appointment, and about 6 hours afterward to reduce inflammation that may occur. That said, practicing routine oral healthcare will reduce the need for medication.
#6. Tell Your Hygienist if You Have Any Sensitive Spots
Do you have areas of your mouth that you know are overly sensitive or painful? Be sure to let your dental team know this information beforehand so they can proceed with caution. They will always do their best to be as gentle and caring as possible.
Don’t let the idea of pain get in the way of the quality oral healthcare you need. Use these tips to stay smiling and comfortable during your dental cleanings!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Renu Michelsen is a friendly and caring dentist who is passionate about providing relaxing, comfortable dentistry. She has an experienced and gentle team around her who know how to keep patients happy and at ease. For any questions about getting a cleaning or checkup, she can be reached through her website or by phone at (714) 538-1178.
Request