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How Long Do I Have to Wait to Eat After a Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleaning appointments often fall midday due to busy schedules and the high demand for before and after school times.

While preventative dental care is a good use of your lunch break, it opens up the floor for a common question: “when can I eat after a teeth cleaning?”

You might be hungry after your appointment, but of course, you don’t want to affect your smile.

So, here’s what to know about eating after your dental cleaning.

The Dental Cleaning Procedure

First, it’s important to know what you can expect during your dental cleaning:

The dental hygienist begins with a detailed brushing and flossing of each tooth
We then scrape off any plaque buildup, especially near the gum line
The hygienist will also ask you about any dental issues or questions you may have
Next, the dentist enters to assess your dental health
Once a year, you will also take dental X-rays to evaluate root structures
If it’s necessary, we also apply a dental sealant or fluoride treatment to strengthen tooth enamel

The last step is key: how long you must wait to eat after teeth cleaning depends on whether or not you have fluoride application.

When to Eat Following Your Teeth Cleaning

As long as you did not have fluoride applied, you can eat immediately after your teeth cleaning. A bit of sensitivity is normal and nothing to worry about, but for your comfort, you may want to limit these things right after your visit:

Within a few hours, you can eat all of these things without any issues. Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth will help if you notice that it is commonly a problem for you.

However, if you did get fluoride, then you need to wait at least 30 minutes after your appointment before drinking or eating. The fluoride needs this amount of time to fully set in and work. If you eat before then, you may disrupt it and not reap its full benefits.

Book Your Next Dental Cleaning In Burlington, ON

Teeth cleanings are a common and simple appointment. They are non-invasive and don’t require any numbing. That’s why you can often eat immediately after your teeth cleaning appointment.

The only difference is when you have fluoride, in which case you must wait just 30 minutes after your appointment.

Regular dental cleanings help ensure your long-term oral health. Keep your smile in its best shape with the help of our general dentists at Lighthouse Dental Care.Schedule your next teeth cleaning in Burlington with our dedicated team!