Dental treatments are designed to improve your oral health. Unfortunately, a common reality of these procedures is some sensitivity afterward. Whether you’ve gotten a dental filling, a crown, or a deep cleaning, a little bit of discomfort doesn’t mean something went wrong. In most cases, post-treatment sensitivity is temporary and easily manageable. Knowing what causes it and how to respond can help you stay comfortable while your mouth heals.
Why Sensitivity Happens After Dental Treatment
After dental work, teeth and surrounding tissues can be temporarily irritated. Procedures like fillings or crowns may expose inner tooth layers, making nerves more reactive to temperature or pressure. Deep cleanings can also leave gums slightly inflamed as they reattach to the teeth. This heightened sensitivity usually fades within a week or so as the tooth structure stabilizes and tissues recover.
Simple Ways to Reduce Sensitivity at Home
There are several steps you can take to ease discomfort while your mouth heals. The most important is to follow any specific post-treatment instructions your dentist provides to support proper healing. There are, however, several straightforward, generally applicable methods for combating sensitivity:
- Use a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth.
- Brush more gently than usual with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Avoid extremely hot, cold, or acidic foods for a few days.
- If one area feels tender or sensitive, try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- As recommended by your dentist, take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to reduce soreness.
When to Call Your Dentist
Sensitivity should gradually improve. If discomfort worsens, lasts more than a couple of weeks, or includes sharp pain when biting or chewing, it’s time to call your dentist. Ongoing sensitivity can indicate bite issues, lingering inflammation, or the need for a small adjustment to your restoration. Prompt follow-up helps prevent minor concerns from becoming bigger problems.
Comfort-Focused Dental Care in Bonita Springs, FL
If you’re in Bonita Springs and want to learn more about managing dental sensitivity and the benefits of personalized, gentle treatment, contact Dr. Michael Gostigian and the friendly Bonita Grande Dental team to schedule an appointment.