Teeth cleanings are an integral part of maintaining your oral hygiene long-term. They are one of the easiest ways to clear your teeth of any built-up plaque you may have missed. They can also be a tool your hygienist uses to spot issues that your dentist can take a look at.
If you have apprehensions about getting cleanings done due to discomfort, continue reading. Below are some expert tips to help you have a more pleasant experience.
1. Improve Your Oral Hygiene at Home
The absolute easiest way to avoid discomfort during cleanings is to get better at oral hygiene at home. If you brush twice per day for two minutes, and floss between your teeth before bed, you’ll lower your chances of inflamed gums and sensitive teeth.
If you’re having difficulties with either of these activities, consider investing in electric appliances like a toothbrush and water flosser.
2. Ask to be Numbed
It may feel like you’re making a fuss when you ask to be numbed for a cleaning, but your hygienist will have no problems doing that for you. They can apply a topical anesthetic to your gums to ease your discomfort.
Ask any hygienist, and they’ll tell you they’d rather do that than see you having a difficult time or suffering in silence.
3. Request Your Favorite Hygienist
Sometimes there’s more than one hygienist at the practice. If you’ve had a good experience with a particular one in the past, you can always request them. Some patients appreciate a stern approach and others prefer a lighter touch.
It’s not about hurting feelings, but about getting the care you need without apprehension.
4. Wear Headphones or Earbuds
In some places, this would be considered rude. However, communicating with the dental team that you have anxiety will allow them to make accommodations for you. Sometimes anxiety over perceived pain is worse than any physical discomfort. Listening to music might be what you need to distract yourself and be comfortable.
5. Think About the Alternative
Some patients are motivated to do procedures they don’t like by thinking about what could happen if they don’t. It’s not a strategy for everyone, but if it helps you get into the chair, then it’s a tool that you can use.
Without regular cleanings, you could see plaque harden into tartar around your teeth. This is a very difficult and often uncomfortable problem for hygienists to deal with.
Additionally, if you miss cavities between your teeth, they can grow into problems that will require much more work than a simple cleaning!
No one at the dentist’s office wants you to be anxious or uncomfortable. It’s essential to understand that your dental team is on your side. Regular dental exams and cleanings will help you stay on top of your oral care, and provide you with important feedback. If you have any issues or requests, just communicate!
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Tomaszewski is a skilled dentist with a friendly disposition and a passion for helping people. He received his DDS degree from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy Dental Corps and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry. Dr. Steve has been voted “Top Dentist” every year by New Orleans Magazine. To schedule an appointment at Camellia City Family Dentistry, call (985) 641-4444 or visit the website to explore other services.
