Federico Fellini said that “life is a combination of magic and pasta.” And other food. It’s no wonder why people find great joy in eating. It provides the body with essential fuel. Eating also triggers the release of the pleasure chemical dopamine. It’s why eating is so much fun.
Of course, you need to take care of your teeth if you want to enjoy your food. Brushing every meal is ideal. Dentists also recommend flossing once a day. You should also have a thorough dental cleaning twice a year.
It’s too bad that most Americans ignore this, either because of cost or ignorance. 36% of Americans don’t even see their dentist every year. This is bad as regular dental cleaning can lead to early detection of oral health problems.
How Does a Dental Cleaning Go?
You can get a deep cleaning at reliable dentist clinics in your city. The process starts with a dental hygienist removing plaque and tartar. They’ll use an ultrasonic scaler first. Its vibration removes large chunks of tartar. Afterward, your dentist will switch to a manual tool called a curette. They’ll chip away at the remaining plaque.
The dentist will then finish things up by polishing your teeth. They’ll use another tool that will polish your tooth’s enamel. They might even apply a fluoride treatment. It restores the minerals in those pearly whites.
How Long After Dental Cleaning Can I Eat?
That’s the most common question patients ask after they have a deep cleaning. Most people don’t eat much before their dentist appointment due to nerves. So it’s understandable that they’ll start to feel hungry afterward. But whether you’re inclined to eat is another matter.
The good news is you don’t have to wait long. You can eat as soon as you feel ready to do so. But this is if you only had a deep dental cleaning. If your dentist did a cleaning and a fluoride treatment, you’ll have to wait for at least thirty minutes.
Fluoride treatments are often done to help make your teeth stronger. They’re then better equipped to fight off tooth decay. Fluoride needs time to work though. Waiting half an hour before eating will ensure that happens.
What Can I Eat After a Dental Cleaning?
The best dentist in Orlando, Florida will also caution you to be mindful of what you eat after cleaning. Your mouth will be numb after the deep cleaning procedure. This makes eating difficult. It also increases the chances of you biting your tongue or cheek.
Your gums will also feel sore or tender after a dental cleaning. This sensitivity will go away after a few days. But eating the wrong thing could disrupt your gum’s healing process.
· Go-To Foods for Patients
The best cosmetic dentist knows soft foods are your top option after a dental cleaning. It’s best if you choose –
o Applesauce
o Eggs
o Macaroni and cheese
o Mashed potatoes or mashed bananas
o Smoothies
o Soups that are not too hot
o Soft rice and pasta
o Soft vegetables
· Foods That Are No-Nos After Dental Cleaning
There are some foods that you should avoid after a deep cleaning. Here are the usual ones:
· Avoid acidic fruits like tomatoes and oranges for two days after treatment.
· Say no to spicy food. You can start on the peppers 48 hours after the cleaning.
· Avoid anything alcohol for two days to ensure proper healing.
· Don’t munch on anything crunchy or sharp, like popcorn. Give your mouth a day or so to heal.
· Avoid anything hot for at least two days. This includes soup and coffee.
Top Questions About Dental Cleaning
1. Will it hurt? You have nothing to worry about on this front. Dental cleaning isn’t painful. But you will feel the cleaning tools vibrating against your teeth. You might even feel a bit of pressure as the dentist works. The best dentist in Orlando Florida will take steps to ensure you don’t feel any pain. There’s a chance you’ll feel some sensitivity after the procedure though.
2. How long will it take? The duration will depend on how often you have a deep dental cleaning. Most dentist clinics take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes for this procedure. A routine cleaning lasts about an hour. It can take as long as 90 minutes if you’ll get an X-ray or have fluoride applied. But the process only takes 45 minutes if you get dental cleaning often.
3. Can I drink coffee after getting my teeth cleaned? It’s best to avoid drinking coffee for a few hours after the procedure. The natural dyes in coffee could cause stains on the teeth’s enamel. The cream and sugar in coffee could also break down fluoride. That hour or so you spent in the dentist’s chair will all be for nothing. Water is your best choice after a cleaning.
Best Dental Clinic in the Sunshine State
Dentistry of Orlando will make sure your teeth and gums are well cared for. We’re one of the top dental clinics in Orlando. Our dental team is always dedicated to giving your whole family the best care no matter how old they are. We do general dentistry procedures, like cleanings and tooth extractions. We also specialize in cosmetic dentistry. We have two clinics at your disposal. You can call our Avalon clinic at (407) 249-9292 and our Hansel office at (407) 851-5555. You can also email us at avalon@dentistryoforlando.com or hansel@dentistryoforlando.com.
