A quick answer to a question we get all the time!
If you’ve ever wondered, “Should I brush my teeth before going to the dentist?” — you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and the good news is: there’s no wrong answer — but brushing before your appointment is always appreciated.
Here’s why, and what to keep in mind on appointment day.
✅ Brushing Before Your Dental Appointment: Yes, Please!
We always recommend giving your teeth a gentle brush before you come in — especially if you’ve just eaten. It’s not about impressing your dental hygienist (trust us, we’ve seen it all!) — it simply helps make your exam and cleaning more efficient.
Why it helps:
- Removes surface food particles
- Allows your dentist to get a clearer look at what’s going on
- Makes it easier to identify areas that may need more attention
- Helps reduce bacteria before treatment, which is especially helpful during procedures like fillings or extractions
Even a quick brush and rinse before you leave the house can go a long way.
🪥 What If You Don’t Have Time?
Don’t stress! If you’re coming straight from work, school, or running errands, it’s totally okay if you didn’t have time to brush. We’ll still do a thorough cleaning and exam — no judgment here.
In fact, sometimes seeing how your mouth is in its “natural state” gives us helpful insights about your brushing and flossing habits.
🤔 Should You Brush After Your Appointment Too?
You won’t usually need to brush immediately after a dental visit — especially after a professional cleaning, where your teeth will already be spotless.
However, you may want to wait:
- 30 minutes to an hour after a fluoride treatment (to let it absorb)
- Until any numbness wears off if you’ve had freezing (to avoid biting your cheek or tongue)
- Until instructed, if you’ve had a specific procedure like a filling or extraction
We’ll always let you know if there’s anything special to keep in mind after your visit.
🧼 A Few Extra Tips Before Your Appointment
- Floss if you have time — it helps clear between the teeth
- Avoid eating just before your appointment (especially strong-smelling or sticky foods)
- Don’t worry about having “perfect” teeth — we’re here to help, not judge!
Final Thoughts
While it’s not mandatory, brushing your teeth before your dental appointment is a great way to help us give you the best care possible. And if you can’t? No worries — we’ve got you covered either way.
Need to book your next cleaning or check-up? Contact us today — we’re here to make your visit easy, comfortable, and judgment-free from start to finish.