Are there any aftereffects of deep dental cleaning? It's one of the dental services you should have performed regularly, as part of your scheduled checkups. Perhaps it's been some years since you last had a checkup, so it's important to remember that there may be some mild, temporary aftereffects from a deep dental cleaning. What can you expect?

Compromised Immune Systems

First of all, it should be pointed out that anyone with a chronic autoimmune disorder must take extra precautions at the dentist, even with a dental cleaning. This is because the process stimulates potentially infected tissues, such as when you're affected by gum disease, and bacteria can then be released into your bloodstream. This is harmless for most people but can be risky for those with a compromised immune system. Please make sure you discuss your health with your dentist. They may direct you to take antibiotics prior to your appointment in order to boost your immune system. When the medication is preventative, it's called a prophylaxis antibiotic.

Mild Aftereffects  

The aftereffects of deep dental cleaning are generally mild and aren't a health concern in those whose immune system is healthy. The process itself is a little intensive, so your dentist might apply a numbing agent to your gums to reduce your sensitivity during your deep cleaning. Some of the usual aftereffects of deep dental cleaning can feel similar to an infection, so it's important to have a realistic idea of what to expect.

Increased Sensitivity

Your teeth are likely to be sensitive, and even slightly painful afterwards, especially if your dentist performed root planing, which removes accumulated plaque and debris from the roots of your teeth. You may be more comfortable sticking to a soft food diet after your deep cleaning, but your diet will quickly return to normal—perhaps even by your next mealtime.

Light Bleeding 

Removing plaque from your dental enamel will help to manage gingivitis and other forms of gum disease. Because your gums have been irritated by the process, there may be slight bleeding. This will only be a temporary concern, but you may see traces of blood in your saliva after brushing, so be prepared—it doesn't mean that anything is wrong.

So unless you have a compromised immune system, you shouldn't expect anything more severe than some sensitivity and light bleeding after a deep dental cleaning. Make sure to consult with your dentist when you are receiving such dental services.