Dental cleanings or professional prophylaxis cleanings are extremely important to remove plaque buildup and in the protection of your teeth. These professional cleanings should not be missed at any cost, as they reduce cavity formation and minimize the risk of dental complications.

What should I do before a Professional Dental Cleaning?

Given below is a checklist that will answer most of your questions about dental cleanings. It might seem like a mundane task, but prepping beforehand can help you combat your dental anxiety and make your experience smooth and hassle-free.

Brush Before Your Appointment

It is best to tidy up before your appointment, especially if you have just consumed a meal. Do your regular brushing and flossing. Using a mouthwash can freshen your breath and help you feel squeaky clean before your prophylaxis cleaning. A quick pre-cleaning routine can reduce bacterial transmission and minimize the presence of germs in your mouth. However, avoid brushing too much as it might become difficult for the dentist to identify your oral problems. Professional deep cleaning is essential for taking care of your teeth and your gums. Thus, do not miss it at any cost.

Avoid Whitening before Dental Cleaning

You might feel embarrassed about your stained teeth before going to the dental professional for a thorough cleaning. You might even choose to whiten your teeth just before the appointment. However, you must avoid it at all costs. Yes, there are several benefits of teeth whitening. But tooth bleaching can also lead to sensitive teeth which might make your cleaning experience extremely painful. Ask the dentist to whiten your teeth after your dental cleaning. This makes the whitening procedure far more effective as the whitening products penetrate easily.

Say Goodbye To Dental Anxiety

Anxious about what happens during teeth cleanings? Curb your paranoia and fear before sitting on the dentist’s chair. Practice deep breathing and listen to calming music. It can reduce your stress considerably If required you can carry a stress ball with you for the appointment. Consult your dentist if nothing seems to work. They will take all measures to give you a relaxed and pain-free experience.

Get your Oral Appliance cleaned

If you are using any dental tools then you must carry them with you to your dental cleaning appointment. It could be your retainers, mouth guards, or any other tool that the dentist has recommended for you. Oftentimes, these appliances have excessive tartar buildup and could be the breeding ground of bacterias. It is safe to get them professionally cleaned occasionally to avoid any oral complications in the future.

Take Notes

Note down all the important issues you want to address with the dentist. Oftentimes people go blank when they visit a dental clinic. It is best to take notes before your appointment and let the dentist know your concerns during the appointment.

Reschedule if you are sick

If you are feeling sick on the day of your appointment then you must reschedule. Do not push yourself to go ahead with the cleaning appointment. You could be down with something contagious and might be exposing others to it. Additionally, a dental cleaning entails scraping the gum line. This might lead to the entrance of certain bacteria into the bloodstream. This could lead to weak immunity. You should not take this risk when you are already sick. Just reschedule the appointment and you are good to go.

Now that you know what to do before professional dental cleaning, do not skip your appointments. If you are looking for a prophylaxis cleaning service in Winchester, VA then feel free to walk through our doors at Smiles of Virginia. Our Winchester dentist will provide you with the best cleaning experience.