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.
Request an appointment here: https://www.kevinjdailydds.com or call Kevin J Daily DDS at (831) 580-1141 for an appointment in our Santa Cruz office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Santa Cruz, CA.
Wondering if a dental cleaning helps prevent gum disease? Preventive dentistry, including routine dental cleanings, is essential to having a healthy mouth because it helps patients avoid cavities, enamel wear, and gum disease. Therefore, regular dental cleanings are crucial to a dental patient's oral health.Signing up for a dental cleaning on a regular basis is…
A professional dental cleaning is non-invasive, and the entire process only takes a short amount of time on each visit. While the process for the visit may vary slightly for each patient, there are common steps involved with check-ups and professional dental cleaning visits that can be expected. The process for a dental cleaning typically involves…
A dental cleaning is a simple and non-invasive dental procedure in which plaque and tartar accumulation is scaled away and the teeth and gum line are thoroughly cleaned and polished. There are several notable benefits of this preventive dental procedure that patients should understand. The benefits of dental cleaning include the ability to brighten and clean…
Everyone wants to keep their smile white and healthy for as long as possible, and a complete dental exam every six months is the best way to achieve this goal. You want to find a dentist you are comfortable with, establish a good relationship, and keep up with your oral health. Many patients suffer from dental…
Though you may not like adjusting to new dentures, your old ones will not last…
Implants restore the full function of the mouth and revitalize smiles.
By learning more about these questions, you can decide if sleep apnea is appropriate for…
Practicing preventive dentistry is an effective way to establish good oral health.
Lumineers® are especially well-suited to closing gaps between teeth. The thin porcelain shells are bonded…
For a broken dental crown, a dentist will assess the issue and correct it right…
