TEETH CLEANING TIPS TO IMPRESS YOUR DENTIST

Regular dental cleanings are an important step in keeping your oral health on track. Not only does it keeps your teeth healthy, but it also helps prevent gum disease.

When you don’t floss, you have failed to clean 30% of your tooth surface. A toothbrush is not able to access every area of your mouth, allowing plaque and tartar growth in these areas. This can eventually lead to tooth discoloration and dental decay. It is vital to see your dentist every six months to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar.

At a routine check-up, your dentist at Westgate Dental Center will evaluate and be able to diagnose and treat any minor oral health concerns before they can progress into a bigger problem. Professional teeth cleanings are an easy routine procedure. Here are a few tips to get your teeth thoroughly clean before your next appointment.

TIPS FOR BRUSHING YOUR TEETH PROPERLY & EFFECTIVE 

1. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles.

2. Use a pea–sized amount of toothpaste.

3. Brush your teeth at least twice a day.

4. Use circular, gentle motions when brushing.

5. Focus on brushing the outer surfaces of your teeth first.

6. Finish by brushing the inner surfaces of your teeth.

7. Spit out the toothpaste after brushing.

8. Rinse your mouth with water after brushing.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO FLOSS MY TEETH?

The best way to floss your teeth is to use a water flosser. Water flossers are easy to use and they remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR A DENTAL CLEANING? 

If it’s your first appointment with us at Westgate Dental, we’re excited to welcome you into our dental family. To get started, head over to our ‘New Patient Form’ page on our site to fill out a medical history and dental history PDF.

We always recommend hearing your current health status, whether it is your first appointment or 100th. This vital information about any conditions, allergies, surgeries you have had gives significant data to evaluate your oral health. Please let us know what conditions you may have and a list of current and past medications as it can influence oral health. For example, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can give rise to enamel erosion and increased cavities due to higher acidity. Diabetes, when uncontrolled, is a huge factor in gum disease and bone loss. 

CAN I EAT BEFORE A DENTAL APPOINTMENT?

It’s recommended to eat before seeing your dentist, as an empty stomach could lead to lightheadedness and even anxiety. Proper nourishment before a dental appointment can help you relax and fight off any anxiety. Make sure to brush your teeth after a meal.

CAN I EAT AFTER DENTAL CLEANING? 

This is a common question asked by many patients. If you’ve received a fluoride treatment, wait at least 30 minutes after your teeth cleaning. This gives the fluoride treatment enough time to lock around your teeth. If you didn’t receive fluoride, you’re good to eat immediately after your cleaning appointment. Try sticking to soft, mild foods and avoid spicy, sugary or sticky foods or foods with a high acidic content immediately after cleaning, as it may cause discomfort. A slight sensitivity is common after having your teeth cleaned.

Contact our team today to schedule your next dental appointment with our dentists at Westgate Dental Center here in Maple Ridge.