Reason to Wait After Dental Cleaning
After a dental cleaning, it’s important to wait before eating to protect your oral health. During the cleaning, your dentist removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Eating too soon can bring back bacteria, which can lead to gum disease and other problems.
What you eat is also important. Avoid hot, cold, acidic, spicy, and hard foods. Stick to soft, cold foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes. Also, avoid chewing gum, as it can cause plaque buildup.
Regular cleanings are key to oral health and can help prevent gum disease and other dental issues. Waiting the recommended time after cleaning ensures you get the full benefits of the treatment.
What to Eat After Dental Cleaning?
After a dental cleaning, it’s important to eat foods that are gentle on your teeth and gums to avoid discomfort and keep your mouth healthy. Good options include soft foods like mashed potatoes, applesauce, oatmeal, pasta, bananas, yogurt, cottage cheese, and rice, all of which are easy to chew and gentle on sensitive gums. Cooled, non-acidic soups like chicken or vegetable broth can also be soothing.
Soft scrambled eggs and smoothies made from blended fruits and vegetables are nutritious and easy on the mouth. Tender, sautéed vegetables are another good choice. Avoid acidic foods, and instead, go for steamed vegetables or low-acid fruits to prevent irritation.
Have Questions ?
We Are Open On Saturday
What Not to Eat After Teeth Cleaning?
You can literally eat everything after dental cleaning because it’s a non-invasive procedure. Therefore, it’s easier to answer what not to eat rather than answer what to eat. What you should ignore eating includes:
- Sticky or Chewy Foods: Avoid dried fruits, caramel, gum, and beef jerky, as they can get stuck and irritate your gums.
- Spicy Foods: Skip spicy dishes for 48 hours, as they can irritate sensitive gums.
- Acidic Foods: Stay away from tomatoes, citrus fruits, and pickled items, which can weaken enamel.
- Hot or Cold Foods: Avoid very hot or cold items like soups and ice cream to prevent discomfort.
- Hard or Crunchy Foods: Nuts, chips, and hard candy can irritate your gums, so avoid them for at least 24 hours.
- Oversized Foods: Large sandwiches or whole apples can strain your jaw; take smaller bites instead.
- Dark-Colored Foods: Foods like beets, blueberries, and soy sauce can stain teeth. Avoid them for 24-48 hours.
- Sugary Drinks: Skip soda and juice, as they can harm enamel; stick to water for a few hours.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol, which can irritate gums and delay healing.
- Smoking: Refrain from smoking for several hours to allow proper healing.
Wrapping Up
If you wonder, “How long after dental cleaning can I eat?” You might be relieved to know the waiting time is as short as 30 minutes only.
Visit our dental professionals at Richmond Dental Care. We’re excited to serve the residents of Richmond and surrounding areas. Call us at (832) 612-2831 to book an appointment.
