Do teeth cleanings generally hurt?

Should not: They don't need to. Even if there is an infection present you can get topical anesthetic or local anesthetic. If you are not comfortable let them know.

No: In my office we use novocaine for deep cleanings for gum disease. Deep cleaning called scaling and root planing goes below the diseased gum tissue and the gum is sensitive as well as tooth root. Normal cleaning is typically minor discomfort. Major discomfort during normal cleaning may signal active gum disease. Check your disease risk at www.Thedentaltest .Com . Free online assessment.

Teeth cleaning pain?: Not really. But some folks have very sensitive teeth especially at the gum line.These folks should be numbed up with local anesthetic. Many states allow the dental hygienist to do this under supervision of the doctor. Just ask before the hygienist gets started.

Painless if LA used: With the availability of local and topical anesthetics, even a challenging deep professional cleaning should be painless. If you are experiencing discomfort during your hygiene appointments request appropriate anesthetic for your comfort, high quality dentistry and minimal demands on your time.