Every year, millions of people put off getting their dental cleaning.
Dental anxiety, busy schedules and financial limitations are just a few reasons why people neglect their oral health. But once you finally get that much-needed dental cleaning, what comes next?
The cleanup process itself is not nearly as necessary as the aftercare. Patients assume their responsibilities finish when they leave the dentist's office, but this is untrue.
It's crucial to adhere to a few basic aftercare instructions in order to keep your teeth and mouth healthy and clean. We have made this aftercare guide as clear and understandable as possible for you.
Like the frosting on a cake, aftercare is an essential component of dental cleaning procedures.
Neglecting this step is like leaving a freshly baked cake out in the open; the initial cleaning does its job, but without proper aftercare, you're inviting decay and damage all over again.
Just as you'd secure your cake with a cover to keep it fresh, aftercare serves to protect your teeth, ensuring the longevity of a clean, healthy mouth.
Therefore, aftercare plays a crucial role in maintaining your oral health, preventing potential dental issues, and preserving the effects of a professional cleaning. It's simple, effective, and absolutely necessary.
Rinse your mouth: After the deep teeth cleaning, rinse your jaws with warm salt water to relieve any irritation and reduce swelling. This also helps remove debris and bacteria from the treated areas.
Avoid hot drinks: As the numbing effect wears off, avoid hot beverages to prevent accidental burns.
Don't touch the treated area: Avoid touching or rubbing the dental cleaning site to prevent infection and irritation.
Avoid smoking: If you're a smoker, try to refrain from smoking for at least 24 hours after your cleaning. Smoking can irritate the treated area and delay healing.
Don't eat for 30 minutes: Your gums may be sensitive after the treatment, so avoid consuming or drinking anything for at least 30 minutes.
Brush twice a day: Brushing after every meal is ideal, but at least brushing twice a day is vital to maintain good oral hygiene.
Floss every day: Flossing pulls plaque and food particles between teeth that brushing alone cannot bear.
Rinse with mouthwash: Mouthwash helps kill bacteria in your mouth and freshen your breath. Use a fluoride-based mouthwash for maximum effectiveness.
Limit sugar intake: Sugary foods and drinks contribute to tooth loss and tooth decay. Limiting your sugar intake lessens the risk of cavities and promotes overall health.
Maintain routine dental check-ups: Seeing your dentist every six months is important to keeping your teeth healthy and clean. As well as preserving good oral health and preventing future problems.
Aftercare is a critical part of the dental cleaning process and cannot be overlooked. Here are some important steps to remember after your treatment is done:
Ask the dentist for specific instructions: Every individual's dental needs are different, and your dentist may have clear instructions for you based on your oral health. Never hesitate to ask questions or describe any distrust.
Remain hydrated: Consuming plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria from your jaws, lessening the risk of cavities, gum and periodontal disease.
Brush gently before bed: Brushing before bed is crucial as it removes the remaining food particles and plaque build-up from your day's meals.
Stay away from harmful habits: Avoid chewing tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. These routines can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer and other health problems.
Plaque build-up on the teeth can lead to cavities and gum infection. Regular dental teeth cleanings effectively remove plaque as well as any hardened tartar that forms on the teeth.
During your cleaning, your dentist will check your jaws for any symptoms of cavities, gum disease or other dental concerns. Determining and addressing these issues early can preserve you from more extensive treatments in the future.
Dental cleanings help remove surface colours on teeth, resulting in a brighter and healthier-looking smile.
Lacking oral hygiene has been linked to different health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. Regular cleanings help maintain good oral health, which in turn contributes to your overall well-being.
Experiencing sensitivity after a dental cleaning is not uncommon and can be considered a normal response, particularly if tartar build-up was substantial or if the gums were inflamed. The removal of tartar and bacteria can leave the teeth feeling temporarily exposed and sensitive.
This sensitivity is often mild and should gradually subside within a week. If it persists, however, it is important to consult your dentist as it may indicate underlying dental issues. Using toothpaste prepared for sensitive teeth can help handle this post-cleaning sensitivity.
Contrary to popular belief, a dental cleaning is not designed to whiten teeth. Plaque and removing tartar, as well as maintaining your oral health, are the main objectives of dental cleaning.
Cleanings can make teeth look cleaner and remove some surface stains, but they cannot alter the natural colour of the teeth. For a brighter, whiter smile, you may wish to consider professional teeth whitening services.
However, remember that maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine is the best way to keep your smile looking its best.
Continuous bad breath can be a symptom of dental plaque and bacteria buildup in your mouth.
If your gums are swollen, red, or bleed efficiently when brushing or flossing, it may be a sign of gum disease that requires a deep cleaning.
If you can see a hardened plaque on your teeth, it's time for a professional dentist to remove it.
If you experience tooth pain or sensitivity, it could be a sign of cavities or other serious dental problems or issues that require attention.
If your teeth appear discoloured or stained, a dental cleaning can remove surface stains and help improve the appearance of your smile.
The dental hygienist is an integral part of keeping oral health. While it's normal to experience some sensitivity post-cleaning, and while cleaning may remove some surface stains, it's crucial to understand that its primary goal is not whitening but removing plaque and tartar to preserve your oral health.
Bad breath, inflamed gums, visible tartar buildup, tooth pain, and stained teeth are all signs that you may need routine teeth cleaning sooner than your regular six-month interval.
Remember, your smile's health and beauty are a reflection of your overall well-being. So, keep up with your oral hygiene routine, follow your dentist's aftercare instructions, and never skip your dental appointments.
