An in-office professional dental cleaning is a crucial aspect of maintaining good oral health. While oral hygiene done at home is a great way to keep the teeth and gums healthy, it is important to see a general dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and examinations. Dental cleanings are simple, easy, and relatively painless, and once complete, there are a few tips that can be used to maximize the results of the cleaning process.
The following information should be reviewed and carefully considered after a professional dental cleaning has been completed.
Immediately after a professional dental cleaning, it is advised to avoid heavily dyed foods and beverages that could stain the teeth. Beverages such as coffee, tea, and wine can leave behind a dyed residue that sticks to the surface of the teeth, thus causing stains. While a dental cleaning does not necessarily remove stains, it can help remove those left-behind films, which is why it is wise to avoid immediate consumption if possible to avoid staining immediately afterward.
Long-term, avoiding heavily dyed foods and beverages is also a good idea as it keeps the teeth looking whiter. If consumption is necessary then it is advised to brush and rinse immediately after to help rid the enamel of the dyed residue.
A general dentist also advises against eating and drinking immediately after a dental cleaning. Often an application of fluoride is administered during a cleaning appointment, which helps remineralize the teeth. Even after rinsing, fluoride still remains on the enamel in order to soak in and take effect. It is recommended to avoid the immediate consumption of anything so that the results of the fluoride application can be maximized.
It is also recommended to avoid foods that are sticky, chewy, or hard immediately after a dental cleaning. The teeth are freshly cleaned and often sensitive from fluoride after a dental cleaning, which makes it important to be careful with them. Chewing foods that are not soft in substance may result in discomfort or damage.
Another obvious but very necessary aftercare tip is to maintain good oral hygiene. Dental cleanings from a dentist are not a long-term oral hygiene solution. Instead, they are meant to supplement daily oral hygiene, which is the main practice that should be used to keep the teeth and gums in good shape.
Daily oral hygiene after a dental cleaning should include brushing the teeth twice a day or after every meal. Flossing should be done once a day and rinsing with mouthwash or salt water should be done a few times a week.
Dental cleanings are a great way to maintain good oral health. However, what you do after the appointment is also crucial. To find out more about aftercare, reach out today. Our general dentistry team can provide patient-specific tips for making the most of dental cleanings.
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