What to Do Before and After Your Dental Cleaning in Oswego, IL

Get Ready for Squeaky Clean Teeth with Dental Cleaning

Your regular dental appointments are essential for clean, healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Do you have a dental cleaning coming up? Find out the best way to prepare before your visit and how to best care for your teeth afterward with our guide from our dentists in Oswego, IL. Preparing for your next dentist appointment ensures effective treatment and helps alleviate any concerns or nervousness.

To schedule your dental cleaning appointment, contact Downtown Dental and Implants of Oswego today by calling (630) 554-1855.

woman getting a dental checkup

The Day Before Your Appointment

On the day before your dental cleaning appointment, you should:

  • Make sure to confirm your appointment time with the dental office. Confirming your dentist appointment ensures there are no scheduling conflicts.
  • Inform your dental office of any changes in your health or medication since your last visit.
  • Make sure to gather all necessary insurance information, photo ID, and payment information to bring with you. This can help streamline the check-in process at the dental office. Proper brushing the day before the appointment is crucial to maintain oral hygiene and make a good impression.

The Day of Your Appointment

On the day of your appointment, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene before your visit. You should:

  • Brush your teeth, floss, and rinse your mouth with mouthwash. Remember, while brushing is necessary, it may have minimal impact on your teeth cleaning as tartar or stains will be effectively removed during the cleaning process.
  • Avoid brushing your teeth immediately before your appointment, as it can cause bleeding and make it harder for the dental hygienist to clean your teeth properly.
  • Avoid drinking coffee, tea, or any dark-colored beverages before your appointment, as they can stain your teeth and make it harder for the dental hygienist to assess your oral health.

Maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, prevents any issues before a dentist appointment.

How to Care for Your Teeth After a Dental Cleaning

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to your health, and dental cleanings play a vital role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. After a dental cleaning, you must follow post-appointment instructions to achieve the best results and keep your oral health in pristine condition. It’s also important to stay hydrated and avoid sugary drinks for a few hours after the cleaning.

family all smiling

How to Care for Your Teeth After a Dental Cleaning

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to your health, and dental cleanings play a vital role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. After a dental cleaning, you must follow post-appointment instructions to achieve the best results and keep your oral health in pristine condition. It’s also important to stay hydrated and avoid sugary drinks for a few hours after the cleaning.

Immediate Post-Appointment Instructions

Following your dental procedure, our dentist will provide you with specific instructions to follow during your recovery. These instructions will vary depending on the procedure you had and your individual needs. Be sure to schedule your next dentist appointment to ensure proper follow-up care and address any concerns you may have.

Wait 30 Minutes Before Eating or Drinking

In general, you should wait at least a few hours before eating or drinking. Most dental cleaning appointments include a fluoride treatment at the end. During the wait time after a fluoride treatment, it’s crucial to avoid consuming acidic or fizzy drinks as they can wash away the fluoride before it has had a chance to bond with the tooth enamel. These minerals are essential for forming the surface of the teeth. To quench thirst during this time, only sip water to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.

Avoid Hot Foods & Drinks for Four Hours After Dental Cleaning

It’s important to avoid consuming hot food and drinks for at least four hours after a fluoride treatment as the heat can dissolve the fluoride before it has a chance to bond permanently with the tooth enamel. This can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment, as the minerals that form the surface of the teeth require fluoride to strengthen and protect against decay. 

Additionally, the heat from hot food and drinks can be uncomfortable for patients experiencing tender gums and sensitive teeth after a cleaning. 

Oral Hygiene Care

Proper oral hygiene is essential for preventing infection and promoting healing after a dental cleaning. Try the following:

  • Brush your teeth gently with toothpaste twice a day. Using proper brushing techniques is crucial to avoid dental issues.
  • Rinse your mouth between meals.
  • Floss once a day.
  • Use an alcohol-free mouthwash.

Maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine is important to prevent any issues before a dentist appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear makeup or jewelry to my dental cleaning appointment?
Can I eat before my dental cleaning appointment?
Can I request a specific dental hygienist for my cleaning appointment?
Can I wear makeup or jewelry to my dental cleaning appointment?

Avoid wearing makeup or jewelry to your dental cleaning appointment, as they can interfere with the cleaning process. The dental hygienist needs full access to your face and neck area during the cleaning process, and jewelry can get in the way. Additionally, makeup can make it harder for the dental hygienist to see any potential issues with your oral health, such as swollen gums or lesions.

If you choose to wear them, keep them minimal and simple. Opt for small, simple earrings and a thin necklace, and avoid wearing lip gloss or lipstick. Overall, it’s best to prioritize your oral health during your dental cleaning appointment and avoid any potential distractions that can interfere with the process.

Can I eat before my dental cleaning appointment?

Yes, you can eat before your dental cleaning appointment. However, avoid eating anything heavy or sticky that can get stuck in your teeth, such as candy or popcorn. Additionally, avoid eating anything that can stain your teeth, such as coffee or tea, as this can make it harder for the dental hygienist to assess your oral health.

Can I request a specific dental hygienist for my cleaning appointment?

Yes, you can request a specific dental hygienist for your cleaning appointment. Many dental offices allow patients to choose their preferred hygienist, as long as that hygienist is available on the day of the appointment. Keep in mind that if your preferred hygienist isn’t available, you may need to see another hygienist.

Achieve Your Healthiest Smile

Ready to schedule a dental appointment with our dentists in Oswego? Call our dental office at  (630) 554-1855 today to achieve your healthiest smile yet! We’re gladly welcoming new patients and will work with you to ensure your oral health is in excellent condition.

Menu