Maintaining a Healthy Smile After a Scale and Clean
A scale and clean do wonders for your smile, but keeping that fresh feeling afterwards requires some effort.
By taking a few easy actions, you can prolong the effects of your scale and clean and preserve the quality of your teeth.
Stick to a Consistent Oral Care Routine
After a scale and clean, the first step to maintaining a healthy smile is sticking to a proper oral care routine.
It’s easy to think, “I just had my teeth cleaned; I can skip a night or two.” But plaque doesn’t take days off—it starts building up almost immediately.
You should brush your teeth three times a day with fluoride toothpaste to prevent food particles from becoming lodged in them. If flossing feels like a chore, try interdental brushes or water flossers—they can make cleaning between your teeth easier and quicker.
Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash to freshen up and reduce bacteria without irritating your gums.
Pay Attention to What You Eat
Your diet has a big impact on the health of your teeth. Right after your scale and clean, your teeth may feel more sensitive, so it’s a good idea to avoid acidic foods and drinks, like citrus fruits or soda, for a day or two. These can irritate your gums and wear down the freshly cleaned enamel.
Over time, opt for foods that promote dental health. Apples and carrots are crunchy fruits and vegetables that act as natural toothbrushes to remove plaque. Cheese and yoghurt are excellent dairy items since they are high in calcium and help to strengthen teeth.
Cut back on sugary snacks and drinks to avoid giving plaque bacteria the fuel it needs to grow.
Hydrate Throughout the Day
Keeping your mouth moist is essential for oral health. Saliva is vital in neutralising acids that might cause tooth damage and cleaning away food particles. Drink water frequently throughout the day, especially after meals, to rinse away any lingering debris.
If you love coffee or tea, be mindful of staining. After consuming these drinks, rinse your mouth with water to avoid unpleasant stains that could dull your smile.
Listen to Your Gums
Your gums may feel tender after a professional scale and cleaning, but that should settle down within a day or two.
However, if your gums stay swollen, bleed when you brush, or feel unusually sensitive, it could be a sign that more care is needed. Gum health is as essential as clean teeth, so don’t ignore these signals.
If the discomfort persists, follow up with your dentist. They may recommend a prescribed mouthwash or give you specific advice to help your gums recover.
Don’t Wait for Problems to Appear
One of the most effective ways to maintain your smile is by addressing minor issues early. For example, don’t dismiss it if you notice a bit of sensitivity or minor gum irritation. These small signs can escalate if left untreated.
Regular dental check-ups are essential—even if everything feels fine. Your dentist can catch potential problems early, saving you from discomfort and more complex treatments.
Whitening After a Scale and Clean
A scale and clean often removes surface stains, leaving teeth looking brighter. If you’ve been considering whitening treatments, now is the perfect time to explore your options.
With your teeth freshly cleaned, any whitening treatment you choose—at home or in the office—will be more effective.
Before starting, consult your dentist to ensure your teeth are in good shape for whitening.
This will ensure you’ll get the best results without causing unnecessary sensitivity.
Book Your Next Appointment Early
The best way to maintain oral health is to avoid potential issues. Booking your following scale and cleaning in advance keeps you on track and ensures you don’t miss out on your twice-yearly check-ups.
It’s easy to forget dental appointments when life gets busy, but setting that date in advance locks it into your schedule and keeps your smile in check.
Scale and Clean in Cheltenham
Your smile is one of your best assets; keeping it healthy between visits doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick to a solid routine, be mindful of your diet, and listen to what your teeth and gums tell you.
A little effort each day goes a long way toward maintaining the results of your scale and clean—and your future self will thank you for it.
Are you ready to book your next appointment or need advice on these tips? Contact us today. Let’s work together to keep your smile shining!
We at Captivate Dental are here to help you maintain a strong, healthy smile for many years!
You can reach us at (03) 9553 129 or 36 Chesterville Road in Cheltenham.