Experiencing earaches after a dental cleaning is not a common or expected side effect. Dental cleanings typically involve the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth and gumline and are not directly related to the ears or ear canal.
There could be several reasons why you are experiencing ear pain after a dental cleaning, but it's essential to note that it might be coincidental and unrelated to the dental procedure. Some possible explanations for your ear pain could include:
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) issues: TMJ is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. If there was any stress or strain during the dental cleaning that affected the TMJ, it could lead to referred pain in the ears.
Sinusitis: Sinus infections or inflammation can cause pain in the ears, as the ears, nose, and throat are interconnected.
Ear infection: You might have an unrelated ear infection that coincidentally occurred around the same time as your dental cleaning.
Nerve irritation: Dental work or cleaning can sometimes cause temporary nerve irritation, which could lead to referred pain.
If the ear pain has been persistent or severe, I recommend consulting both your dentist and a medical doctor. Your dentist can examine your oral cavity to ensure there are no dental issues contributing to the ear pain, and a medical doctor can assess your ears and other possible causes for the discomfort.
In the meantime, you can try over-the-counter pain relievers (if not contraindicated for you) and warm compresses to help alleviate any discomfort. However, it's essential to seek professional medical advice for a proper evaluation and accurate diagnosis.