What to Do Before and After Your Dental Cleaning
Get Ready for Squeaky Clean Teeth
Your regular dental appointments are essential for clean, healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Do you have a dental cleaning coming up? Find out the best way to prepare for your visit and how to best care for your teeth afterward with our guide from dentists in Seattle.
The Day Before Your Appointment
On the day before your dental cleaning appointment, you should:
- Make sure to confirm your appointment time with the dental office.
- Inform your dental office of any changes in your health or medication since your last visit.
- Make sure to gather all necessary insurance information, photo ID, and payment information to bring with you.
- This can help streamline the check-in process at the dental office.
The Day of Your Appointment
On the day of your appointment, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene before your visit. You should:
- Brush your teeth, floss, and rinse your mouth with mouthwash.
- Avoid brushing your teeth immediately before your appointment, as it can cause bleeding and make it harder for the dental hygienist to clean your teeth properly.
- Avoid drinking coffee, tea, or any dark-colored beverages before your appointment, as they can stain your teeth and make it harder for the dental hygienist to assess your oral health.
How to Care for Your Teeth After a Dental Cleaning
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to your overall health, and dental cleanings play a vital role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. After undergoing a dental cleaning, you must follow post-op instructions to ensure you achieve the best results and keep your oral health in pristine condition.
Immediate Post-Op Instructions
Following your dental procedure, your dentist will provide you with specific instructions to follow during your recovery. These instructions will vary depending on the procedure you had and your individual needs.
Wait 30 Minutes Before Eating or Drinking
In general, you should wait at least 30 minutes to an hour before eating or drinking. Most dental cleaning appointments include a fluoride treatment at the end. During the wait time after a fluoride treatment, it’s crucial to avoid consuming acidic or fizzy drinks as they can wash away the fluoride before it has had a chance to bond with the tooth enamel. These minerals are essential for forming the surface of the teeth. To quench thirst during this time, only sip water to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
Avoid Hot Foods & Drinks for Four Hours After Dental Cleaning
It’s important to avoid consuming hot food and drinks for at least four hours after a fluoride treatment as the heat can dissolve the fluoride before it has a chance to bond permanently with the tooth enamel. This can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment, as the minerals that form the surface of the teeth require fluoride to strengthen and protect against decay.
Additionally, the heat from hot food and drinks can be uncomfortable for patients experiencing tender gums and sensitive teeth after a cleaning.
Oral Hygiene Care
Proper oral hygiene is essential for preventing infection and promoting healing after a dental cleaning. Try the following:
- Brush your teeth gently with toothpaste twice a day
- Rinse your mouth between meals.
- Floss once a day.
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Avoid wearing makeup or jewelry to your dental cleaning appointment, as they can interfere with the cleaning process. The dental hygienist needs full access to your face and neck area during the cleaning process, and jewelry can get in the way. Additionally, makeup can make it harder for the dental hygienist to see any potential issues with your oral health, such as swollen gums or lesions.
If you choose to wear them, keep them minimal and simple. Opt for small, simple earrings and a thin necklace, and avoid wearing lip gloss or lipstick. Overall, it’s best to prioritize your oral health during your dental cleaning appointment and avoid any potential distractions that can interfere with the process.
Yes, you can eat before your dental cleaning appointment. However, avoid eating anything heavy or sticky that can get stuck in your teeth, such as candy or popcorn. Additionally, avoid eating anything that can stain your teeth, such as coffee or tea, as this can make it harder for the dental hygienist to assess your oral health.
Yes, you can request a specific dental hygienist for your cleaning appointment. Many dental offices allow patients to choose their preferred hygienist, as long as that hygienist is available on the day of the appointment. Keep in mind that if your preferred hygienist isn’t available, you may need to see another hygienist.
Achieve Your Healthiest Smile
Ready to schedule a dental appointment with our dentists in Seattle? Call our dental office today to achieve your healthiest smile yet! We’re gladly welcoming new patients and will work with you to ensure your oral health is in excellent condition.
