Are regular brushing and flossing not able to give you the desired results? Well, there is a solution. Professional dental cleaning is an easy way to maintain your teeth and remove plaque and tartar buildup, which regular brushing and flossing cannot handle sometimes. Believe it or not, after a professional cleansing session, your teeth and gums are much healthier.
At Smile Boutique Group, we guide our patients on what to do and what not to do after teeth cleaning procedure to help them maintain the results for a longer period of time.
Let us explore “What Not to Do After Teeth Cleaning” to enjoy the maximum benefits of the procedure.
WHY DO YOU NEED TEETH CLEANING?
Good oral hygiene prevents the development of major oral health issues. Regular dental cleanings help the dentist find spots that the patient misses cleaning during their regular brushing and flossing. During these visits, the dentist is able to monitor every part of the mouth and highlight issues such as cavities, infections, etc.
Here are several reasons why you need regular teeth cleaning sessions:
- To prevent gum disease or periodontitis that can cause tooth loss.
- Get oral scanning done, which includes a physical examination, x-rays, and various tests.
- Identify broken fillings, cavities, and gum infections at an early stage.
- Get tooth polishing done and remove stains from tea and coffee.
- Get rid of lousy breadth, i.e., halitosis, which affects around 85% of the population.
- Most dental Insurance Plans provide teeth cleaning coverage, so why not enjoy the benefit?
- It helps you develop a treatment plan for dental issues, if any.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING TEETH CLEANING?
Here is what you can expect during the procedure:
First, the dentist will examine your gums, teeth, and oral cavity for any health issues. If any minor dental problems are found, they will address them immediately. Once the dentist confirms that you are fit for the cleaning, the procedure will begin.
The dentist will start by rinsing your mouth and then carefully scraping off plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. After this, they will polish your teeth with a special polishing paste and an electric handpiece. After the polishing, the dentist will floss your teeth to remove the plaque and tartar left between your teeth.
The dentist can apply fluoride treatment to your teeth if necessary. It will help reinforce and strengthen your enamel and prevent decay and cavities.
Finally, the dentist will finish the treatment by applying a dental sealant to your molars. This sealant creates a barrier that protects your teeth from harmful bacteria and other substances.
WHAT NOT TO DO AFTER THE TEETH CLEANING PROCEDURE?
It is important to take care of your teeth and gums after the teeth cleaning process to maintain oral health. Here are some things you should avoid after teeth cleaning:
Avoid Eating Immediately:
You should not eat anything for the initial 30 minutes after the fluoride treatment. You should wait for the fluoride to absorb in the enamel and provide protection against cavities.
Avoid Hard or Crunchy Foods:
Do not eat hard or crunchy foods for the first 24 hours, as that can irritate your gums, which may have become sensitive after the cleaning.
Skip Acidic or Sugary Drinks:
Beverages like soda, juice, and wine can weaken your enamel, especially if you consume them after cleaning. It’s best to have water only for a few hours.
Don't Smoke:
Smoking delays the healing process and irritates your gums. It is best to avoid smoking for at least a few hours after your cleaning to protect your gums.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks:
Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored foods can stain your freshly cleaned teeth. It is best to avoid these for at least 24-48 hours after your cleaning.
Don't Skip Your Oral Hygiene Routine:
Brush and floss your freshly cleansed teeth and gums regularly, even if they look clean. However, be gentle on your gums.
Avoid Using Strong Mouthwash:
Alcohol-based mouthwashes can be harsh on your gums right after a cleaning. Choose a mild, non-alcoholic mouthwash if needed.
WHAT CAN YOU EAT AFTER A PROFESSIONAL TEETH CLEANING?
There are several food items you can consume after teeth cleaning. Some of them are given below:
- Mashed potatoes
- Oatmeal
- Pasta
- Bananas
- Cottage cheese
- Rice
- Cooled soups
- Smoothies
- Soft, sauteed vegetables
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Soft scrambled eggs
CONCLUSION
Still wondering, “What not to do after teeth cleaning?” It is important to be aware of what not to do after teeth cleaning to enjoy optimal oral health. Activities like eating immediately, consuming foods and drinks that can stain the teeth, and smoking are advised. Always follow the instructions given by the dentist and practice good oral hygiene to enjoy long-lasting results from the procedure.
For comprehensive dental care and advice on maintaining oral health, schedule an appointment with Smile Boutique Group in Northridge, CA. New patients can book online or call us at (818) 570-8276 while existing patients can reach us at (818) 678-9975.
FAQ
It is best to wait for about 30 minutes to allow any fluoride treatment to be fully absorbed. After that, you can resume your regular brushing routine.
It is normal to experience increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold temperatures, after a cleaning. This sensitivity is temporary and will subside within a few days.
It is suggested that a professional tooth cleaning be done every six months to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental issues.
