Post-Dental Cleaning Care: Simple Steps to Maintain Healthy Teeth and Gums

Leaving a professional dental cleaning appointment with super clean and smooth teeth feels amazing. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a freshly cleaned smile. While a dental cleaning makes your smile look brighter, regular oral hygiene also plays a significant role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. How should you take care of your teeth and gums after you have them cleaned? And how can you keep that sparkling clean feel and keep your smile looking bright? Let’s learn more.

Eating and Drinking After Your Professional Dental Cleaning

Immediately after your dental cleaning, dentists recommend that you wait 30 minutes before drinking or eating. After your cleaning, the hygienist team will apply a topical fluoride treatment. Waiting half an hour before eating and drinking gives this treatment time to bond with the enamel on your teeth.

No Hot Foods and Drinks for Four Hours

Dentists recommend avoiding very hot foods and beverages for four hours after you have your teeth cleaned. The reason for this is that your fluoride treatment won’t set well if you consume hot items. Also, the heat from these foods and drinks can cause discomfort if your gums and teeth are sensitive.

Brush Your Teeth Gently Before Bed

Before you go to bed that night, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your teeth. Be extra gentle with your teeth and gums. While it might be tempting to skip brushing that night, you should brush unless you hear otherwise from your dentist.

Rinse With an Alcohol-Free Mouthwash for More Protection

Mouthwash can kill bacteria in the mouth, so using good-quality mouthwash should be an important part of your oral care routine. Mouthwash with alcohol can cause mouth dryness, so dentists recommend choosing a product that’s alcohol-free. Keep in mind that mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing twice a day and flossing before bed.

Why Post-Dental Cleaning Care Is Important

Following your dental cleaning, it’s crucial to practice continuous care to keep your smile fresh and healthy. Clean teeth have many benefits, including:

• Gum disease prevention: Gum degradation and inflammation will lead to potential tooth loss and pain if they’re left unchecked. 
• Minimization of bad breath: Decay and gum disease are caused by bacteria build-up and leftover food particles. These can both cause bad breath. 
• Fewer cavities: Plaque is the main enemy of oral health, and keeping your teeth clean will minimize its build-up chance. 

Keeping Your Teeth Clean Long-Term

Your teeth won’t keep that freshly cleaned feel forever, but you can make your cleaning last longer with proper care. One tip is maintaining a healthy diet by limiting sugary or sticky foods. Also, be sure to schedule regular dental checkups. 

Learn More About Dental Cleaning Aftercare in San Diego, CA

For a fresh and delightfully clean smile, get in touch with Dr. Sanjay Dhir and the team at Dhir Dentistry in San Diego, California. Call us today at (858) 358-5801 or use our online form to request an appointment.

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