Get Ready for Squeaky Clean Teeth
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing tooth decay. Suppose you’re preparing for an upcoming appointment with a dental hygienist in Hilliard. In that case, this comprehensive guide, created by our Hilliard, OH, dentist, will help you know exactly what to do before and after your dental cleaning to ensure the best possible results.
To schedule your dental cleaning appointment with our compassionate team, contact Fishinger Dental today at (614) 771-6060.
Preparing for Your Dental Cleaning at Our Hilliard Dental Office
The Day Before Your Appointment
Proper preparation ensures your dental visit goes smoothly:
- Confirm your appointment time with our Hilliard dental office to avoid any scheduling conflicts
- Update your medical information by informing our team of any changes in your health or medications since your last visit
- Prepare necessary documents, including insurance information, photo ID, and payment details, to streamline the check-in process
- Note any concerns you want to address during your visit, such as sensitivity, pain, or cosmetic questions
The Morning of Your Appointment
On the day of your dental cleaning:
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing thoroughly, but avoid brushing immediately before your appointment as it can cause temporary gum inflammation
- Avoid dark beverages like coffee, tea, or red wine that can temporarily stain your teeth and make assessment more difficult
- Eat a light meal before your appointment, avoiding sticky foods that might get lodged between teeth
- Dress comfortably with minimal jewelry that might interfere with the cleaning process
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork
Post-Dental Cleaning Care
After your professional teeth cleaning process, follow these guidelines to maintain your results and protect your oral health:
Immediate Post-Cleaning Instructions
The First Hour After Treatment
- Wait at least 30-60 minutes before eating or drinking following your fluoride treatment
- Avoid acidic or carbonated beverages that can weaken the newly-applied fluoride’s bonding to your tooth enamel
- Sip water only if you need to quench your thirst during this waiting period
The First Four Hours After Treatment
- Avoid hot foods and beverages as heat can dissolve the protective fluoride layer before it fully bonds with your enamel
- Choose cool or room-temperature foods if you need to eat
- Be gentle with sensitive areas as your gums and teeth may be temporarily more sensitive following your cleaning
Maintaining Your Clean Teeth
Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
- Brush gently twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Floss once daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth
- Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen breath
- Consider using an electric toothbrush for more thorough plaque removal
Long-Term Oral Health Maintenance
- Schedule regular dental cleanings every six months for optimal oral health
- Address any concerns promptly rather than waiting for your next appointment
- Consider additional preventive treatments such as dental sealants if recommended by your dentist
- Maintain a tooth-friendly diet low in sugary and acidic foods
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear makeup or jewelry to my dental cleaning appointment?
While you can wear makeup and jewelry to your appointment, we recommend keeping them minimal. Extensive makeup, especially lipstick, can interfere with the hygienist’s ability to fully assess your oral health. Large jewelry may get in the way during treatment. If possible, opt for a natural look and simple accessories for your dental visit.
Can I eat before my dental cleaning appointment?
Yes, you can eat before your dental cleaning. In fact, having a light meal beforehand can help prevent lightheadedness during your appointment. However, avoid foods that easily get stuck in teeth or cause strong odors. Remember to brush thoroughly after eating, but not immediately before your appointment.
What if I experience sensitivity after my cleaning?
Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity following a dental cleaning, especially if they have receding gums or thin enamel. This is normal and typically subsides within a few days. Using a desensitizing toothpaste and avoiding extremely hot or cold foods can help manage any discomfort. If sensitivity persists beyond a week, contact our dental office.
Can I request a specific dental hygienist for my cleaning?
Absolutely! We understand the importance of building a comfortable relationship with your dental care providers. Our dental office is happy to accommodate requests for specific hygienists whenever possible. Simply mention your preference when scheduling your appointment, and we’ll do our best to arrange it.
Achieve Your Healthiest Smile with Fishinger Dental
At Fishinger Dental, we genuinely care about your well-being and are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care to patients of all ages. Our entire staff is dedicated to making your dental experience as comfortable and productive as possible.
Ready to schedule your dental cleaning? Call our Hilliard dental office today at (614) 771-6060 to book your appointment. We’re gladly welcoming new patients and look forward to helping you achieve your healthiest smile yet!
We proudly serve patients throughout the Columbus area, including Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and surrounding communities.
