You probably already know that you can’t eat for a while after you get a routine dental cleaning. No matter what kind of treatment you’ve just received from your trusted dentist in Irvine, you may be advised to wait at least 30 – 60 minutes before putting food back in your mouth. This is usually meant to protect your teeth after they have been cleaned. They are likely to be a bit sensitive, after all. So what can you eat after dental cleaning?
What Can I Eat After Dental Cleaning?
However, we are pleased to announce that you don’t have to wait at all after your cleaning anymore! In fact, in most cases, you can eat right away following your in-office procedure. Unless you are also getting additional dental work done, you may not have to change your diet at all.
For those wondering, “What can I eat after dental cleaning?” the answer is almost anything. However, there are still a few dental health guidelines that we’d like you to follow.
Deep Cleaning Comfort Foods
Have you had more than just a regular cleaning (a “deep cleaning,” as some call it)? Then your teeth may be feeling a little more vulnerable than usual. Due to the tools and products used to clean your teeth, you might not want to eat hard substances for a while. For a day or two following your procedure, it might feel comfortable to stick to soft things like yogurt, applesauce, soup, bananas, and other similar items.
Avoiding Poor Oral Health Foods
While you are free to eat whatever you want following your regular in-office teeth cleaning, there are still plenty of food and drink items that are bad for your dental health. Substances high in sugar, like soda and candy, can encourage harmful bacteria to build up in between your teeth. Sugar also weakens the gums and makes it easy for infection to spread. Not to mention, the hard candy can cause your teeth to crack or chip without ample protection.
Other foods that are bad for your health include:
- Popcorn: the shells and corn kernels can get stuck in the teeth, damaging the roots and gums
- Processed foods: Full of sugar and unhealthy nutrients, processed foods only harm your body.
- Energy drinks: Energy drinks might be posed as healthy, but they contain way more sugar than water, which is a lot healthier (and more hydrating).
Your dentist will never ask you to completely cut something out of your diet. Ultimately, you can eat and drink whatever you choose. However, this is a good opportunity to pay attention to your body and understand what options may be best for your present and future health.
Fluoride Treatment Tooth Sensitivities
Another type of tooth cleaning is known as a fluoride treatment. It uses the chemical to strengthen the enamel on the surface of your teeth, cleaning up minor blemishes along the way. In order for the fluoride to take full effect, it will need to sit on the surface of your teeth for at least 6 hours. You shouldn’t brush or floss during this time. Similarly, you also should stay away from extremely hot or extremely cold drinks. This could damage your teeth and interrupt the process of reinforcing your oral health.
Schedule Your Next Comprehensive Cleaning Appointment with Us
Has it been a long time since you scheduled a full teeth cleaning? It is important to get this process done twice a year to remain healthy and prevent the buildup of bacteria and decay. Learn about your options for teeth cleaning in Irvine by contacting us at your earliest convenience. One of our friendly staff members will connect you with eligible services and help you get what you need to improve your dental health ASAP.