Dental Fillings - Spring Hill, TN

Dental Filling Care

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Following your tooth filling procedure, it’s important to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine. Regular brushing and flossing are vital for keeping your dental fillings clean and free from bacteria. Brush your teeth at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss between your teeth every day to remove plaque and food particles that can lead to decay and gum disease.

Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

To prevent damage to your dental filling or gum irritation, choose a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard-bristled brushes can potentially wear down the filling material or cause the edges to become rough, resulting in premature wear or discomfort.

Avoid Excessive Force

While brushing, be gentle and avoid using excessive force when cleaning around the dental filling. Vigorous brushing or using a hard-bristled brush can place unnecessary stress on the fillings, leading to cracks or loosening. Remember, thorough cleaning can be achieved without aggressive brushing.

Limit Acidic and Sugary Foods

Acidic and sugary foods can contribute to tooth decay and weaken fillings. Limit your consumption of acidic beverages like soda, citrus juices, and sports drinks. Reduce your intake of sugary snacks, candies, and desserts. If you consume these foods, rinse your mouth with water afterward to help neutralize acids and reduce the risk of developing another dental cavity. Additionally, acidic and sugary foods can also contribute to sensitive teeth after a dental filling.

Avoid Chewy or Sticky Foods

Chewy or sticky foods, such as taffy, chewing gum, or hard candies, can potentially dislodge or damage your dental fillings. These foods create excessive pressure on the filling material, leading to cracks or breakage. Opt for softer and easier-to-chew foods to minimize the risk of damaging your fillings.

Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups

Routine dental check-ups are crucial for monitoring the condition of your dental filling. Our Spring Hill, TN dentist will examine the fillings during your visits to ensure they’re intact and functioning properly. Regular cleanings and exams also allow our dentist to detect any signs of decay, infection, or damage early on.

Report Sensitivity or Discomfort

If you’re experiencing mild to moderate pain, tooth sensitivity, or discomfort around your dental fillings, it’s essential to report it to your dentist promptly. Sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks, biting pressure, numbness, or changes in your bite may indicate a problem with the filling. Early intervention can help prevent more significant issues and ensure your fillings are repaired or replaced if necessary.

Avoid Tobacco Products

Tobacco use, whether smoking or chewing tobacco, can negatively impact your oral health and the longevity of a dental filling. Tobacco products increase the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Smoking can cause discoloration of the fillings over time.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, promotes good oral health and supports the longevity of dental fillings. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your diet. These nutrient-rich foods help strengthen teeth and gums, reducing the risk of decay and supporting the overall health of your mouth and your dental fillings.

Immediate Aftercare

What to Eat After a Filling Procedure

After getting a dental filling, it’s crucial to be mindful of what you eat to protect your new filling and minimize discomfort. For silver fillings, it’s typically recommended to wait 24 hours before eating solid foods. Resin fillings, on the other hand, set immediately, so you may be able to eat right away. However, it’s best to wait until the local anesthetic wears off to avoid accidentally biting your tongue or cheek.

In the first 24 hours after the procedure, avoid sticky, hard, or cold foods and drinks. Opt for soft foods such as scrambled eggs, yogurt, and mashed potatoes. You can also eat fruits and vegetables, crackers, bread, cheese, and other everyday items you likely already have in your kitchen. Be cautious with hot beverages, as the numbness from the local anesthetic might prevent you from feeling the temperature, leading to potential burns or damage to the dental filling.

Remember to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-filling care, and contact them if you experience any moderate pain or discomfort that persists or worsens over time. Proper aftercare is essential for ensuring the longevity of your new filling and maintaining overall oral health.