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Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

Why do my dental cleanings always hurt so bad and make my gums bleed?

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I brush my teeth twice a day and I floss every night. My gums are healthy and I don’t have gum disease BUT with EVERY dental cleaning (I go twice a year) there is lots of pain and blood. Why? Is the hygienist too aggressive? That is what I am starting to believe. Thanks Vicki B.

Vicki – If your teeth and gums are healthy, and you experience pain and bleeding during dental cleanings, it is likely that your dental hygienist is cleaning your teeth too aggressively.

We suggest that you speak with her about your concerns and ask that your teeth be cleaned gently. Your request should be met with a positive response. If you continue to receive harsh dental cleanings, you can request the services of another hygienist in the office. You can also speak with your dentist about the issue. If the problem persists, you may have to find another dental practice with gentle hygienists to care for your needs.

This post is sponsored by Lowell, MA dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Should a teeth cleaning at the dentist hurt and be bloody?

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I was just there 6 months ago and had the same experience as I did last Thursday. It hurt and lots and lots of blood. I think the hygienist doesn’t like me. When I floss and brush my teeth at home it never hurts or bleeds. I only have problems when I go to the dentist. Everything there seems rough and rushed. When the dentist comes in and checks my teeth and gums he says everything looks fine. So why all the pain and blood? Is this a normal experience for a 6 month cleaning at the dentist? – Carmen

Carmen – It is not normal to have a lot of pain and blood during a dental cleaning. If this is the only time you are experiencing problems, you may want to find another dentist, or at least get a second opinion on the reason for your bleeding gums during the cleaning.

It is likely that you need to find a gentle dentist, along with a gentle hygienist, who takes the time to clean your teeth and do it without causing a lot of pain and bleeding.

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek. Dr. Szarek is now accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.