Get Ready for Squeaky Clean Teeth: Before & After Professional Dental Cleaning
Your regular dental appointments are essential for clean, healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Do you have a dental cleaning coming up? Interested in learning the best way to prepare for your regular teeth cleaning or another professional cleaning, and how to best care for your teeth afterward? Read this comprehensive guide from our family dentist in West Chester, PA, Dr. Ron Briglia.
To schedule your dental cleaning appointment, contact Briglia Dental Group today by dialing (610) 615 0160 if you’re a new patient or (610) 692 4440 if you’re a returning patient. You can also keep reading to learn more about what happens before and after dental cleaning appointments here at our West Chester office.
Before, During, and After Dental Cleanings Explained
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 teeth cleaning 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 professional teeth cleaning 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, we’ll 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 after your regular cleaning or any type of dental cleaning. Most teeth 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 teeth 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
