When’s The Right Time for Food After Your Teeth Cleaning?

15 Aug When’s The Right Time for Food After Your Teeth Cleaning?

The hustle and bustle of daily life often leads people to schedule their dental cleanings immediately before or after work. Sometimes even during their lunch break. 

It’s no surprise that your stomach might grumble after a thorough teeth cleaning session at Schellenberg Dental in Mississauga.

You want to eat, but you also don’t want to disrupt the results of your dental cleaning. So, when can you enjoy a meal after your teeth cleaning?

Continue reading to learn about food and beverage consumption following a dental cleaning.

The Dental Cleaning Process

Let’s first revisit what you can expect during a dental cleaning appointment.

• Our dental hygiene team starts with a thorough brushing and flossing process. 
• We then use dental instruments to remove any excess plaque and bacteria. 
• We’ll also inquire about any sensitivities or areas of concern before our dentist comes in to examine your smile. 
• The dentist examines your teeth and recommends any necessary treatments. 
• Depending on your needs, we may finish off with a fluoride treatment to fortify your teeth against decay. 

Whether or not you have fluoride treatment impacts how long you should wait to eat after your teeth cleaning. 

When Can I Eat After a Dental Cleaning?

If your dental cleaning didn’t include fluoride treatment, then you can eat and drink right after your appointment. 

Of course, you may face some sensitivity after the cleaning. Therefore, we suggest limiting the consumption of:

• Cold food, like ice cream
• Sugary foods, like candy
• Sticky foods, including gum
• Very hot food, like soup

In a couple of hours, your sensitivity should go down and you can enjoy any type of food. If you deal with lingering sensitivity, then use a specialized toothpaste to reduce sensitivity.

If you did get a fluoride application during your appointment, then you must wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking. Eating before 30 minutes can disrupt the fluoride treatment before it’s had a chance to strengthen the enamel.

Secure Your Dental Cleaning in Mississauga

Fortunately, dental cleanings are not an invasive procedure. They don’t require anesthesia either, which means they don’t impact your ability to eat or drink for long. If your cleaning includes fluoride treatment, then you must just wait 30 minutes before consuming anything other than water. 

For your long-term dental health, routine dental cleanings are pivotal for upholding oral care. They ensure that your teeth stay in top-notch condition. Take a step toward a healthier smile today and schedule your dental cleaning in Mississauga now.