How to Minimise Discomfort After a Scale and Clean Procedure

Is a scale and clean the most exciting part of your dental care? Probably not. But do you know how essential it is to maintain a healthy smile?

If you’ve ever felt mild soreness or sensitivity afterwards, you’re not alone—it’s normal. So, how can you manage the discomfort like a pro?

Whether it’s your first time or you’ve done it before, knowing the proper post-treatment steps can make all the difference in speeding up recovery and keeping you comfortable.

#1. Take It Easy on Your Teeth Right After the Treatment

Your gums might feel tender or sensitive immediately after the scale and cleaning, especially if there is some plaque buildup. Give them a break by avoiding overly crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods for the first 24 hours.

Think soft foods like soups, smoothies, or mashed vegetables. It’s not forever, just enough time to let your gums recover and reduce the chance of irritating them further.

Try lukewarm drinks and meals if you’re craving something cold or hot. Extreme temperatures can increase sensitivity after cleaning, so it’s best to avoid them.

#2. Rinse with Salt Water to Soothe Your Gums

A saltwater rinse soothes sore gums and reduces inflammation. It’s also a natural way to clean the area without disrupting healing.

For 30 seconds, swish a cup of warm water with half a teaspoon of salt around your mouth. Doing this a couple of times a day can bring noticeable relief.

Saltwater helps with soreness and prevents bacteria from settling into the areas where your dentist cleaned. Just avoid overdoing it—twice a day is plenty.

#3. Manage Discomfort with Over-the-Counter Pain Relief (If Needed)

Taking mild over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen is okay if you feel some lingering soreness. These medicines can reduce inflammation and ease any discomfort you might experience.

However, checking in with your Canley Heights dentist is always a good idea if you’re unsure what’s best for you. Pain relief is usually unnecessary for most patients, but it’s good to have it as an option if your gums feel a bit more sensitive than usual.

#4. Stay Hydrated to Keep Your Mouth Comfortable

Plenty of water helps flush away any leftover dirt or plaque while keeping you hydrated. A dry mouth can worsen sensitivity, so sip water regularly throughout the day to stay comfortable.

If your gums feel irritated, holding cool water in your mouth for a few seconds can also bring quick relief. Just remember to avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes for a day or two—they can be harsh and might aggravate sensitive areas.

#5. Brush Gently with a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

After a scale and clean, you should keep your teeth clean without irritating your gums. If you’re not already using one, switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Brush gently, especially around the gumline, to prevent any discomfort.

Maintaining your usual brushing routine is essential, but scrubbing harder is unnecessary just because your teeth feel smoother after the cleaning. Be kind to your gums—they just went through a deep cleaning and need extra care.

#6. Use a Desensitising Toothpaste for Extra Comfort

If you experience sensitivity after your scale and clean, try switching to a desensitising toothpaste for a few days. These toothpaste contain ingredients that prevent sensitivity impulses from getting to your teeth’s nerves, giving you relief while your gums settle.

It’s an easy swap that can make a big difference, especially if you’re prone to sensitivity after dental treatments. Just apply a pea-sized amount and brush like usual, and you’ll feel the benefits quickly.

#7. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol for a Few Days

Smoking or drinking alcohol can slow down your gums’ healing process and may worsen any irritation you feel after your scale and clean. If possible, allow your mouth to heal naturally by avoiding these activities for at least a few days.

Your gums need time to return from the cleaning, and cutting out anything that might interfere with their recovery can help you feel better faster.

#8. Stay on Top of Your Regular Dental Routine

One of the best ways to reduce discomfort after a scale and clean is to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Brushing twice daily and flossing daily prevents plaque from building up, meaning your next cleaning will be less intense.

Maintaining good oral care also helps your gums stay healthy and resilient between visits, making the whole experience easier. The better care you take of your teeth daily, the less discomfort you’ll have after future appointments.

#9. Communicate with Your Dentist if Something Feels Off

Mild soreness or tenderness is normal, but if you notice unusual swelling, bleeding, or pain that lingers beyond a few days, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. Getting things checked out early is better than ignoring a potential issue.

Your dentist is there to help, and they can offer advice or additional care if necessary. Never hesitate to communicate if your recovery isn’t going as expected—it’s always worth addressing concerns early.

Scale and Clean in Canley Heights

If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, now’s the perfect time to schedule an appointment.

Regular cleanings keep your smile bright and make future visits more comfortable.

Take the next step toward a healthier mouth by booking your scale and clean today. Your smile—and your future self—will thank you!

At Canley Heights Dental Care, we’re here to help you find the best solutions to keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright.

Call us on (02) 9199 9678 or visit us at 1/229 Canley Vale Road in Canley Heights.