A dental filling helps protect your tooth from further damage after decay causes a cavity or you suffer some sort of trauma to the tooth. If you receive a filling after damaging your tooth, dentists urge you to take steps to prevent further damage. In this guide, we’ll explain how to look after your dental filling.
What is a Dental Filling?
Cavities and dental trauma can result in a hole within your tooth. Dentists need to restore the function and structure of the tooth by performing a procedure known as a dental filling. The fix could be temporary or long-term, depending on the type of materials the dentist uses.
Common types of dental filling materials include:
- Composite resin
- Gold
- Porcelain
- Glass-ionomer cement
- Amalgam mixture of copper, tin, silver, zinc, and mercury
Whether you have a temporary dental filling or a permanent one, it’s crucial that you receive regular dental check-ups and maintain good oral hygiene.
Recovering From a Dental Filling
Once the procedure is over, your dentist will provide tips on how to look after your dental filling. You’ll have increased tooth sensitivity immediately after receiving the filling, though this should subside within a few days. Most patients report food sensitivity, especially when consuming hot food or drinks and sweets.
You may also feel discomfort when you chew. For this reason, dentists recommend avoiding hard foods and sticking to a diet of soft food items such as applesauce or yoghurt. The filling can take up to 24 hours to settle, so take some chewing precautions and avoid biting your teeth together where the filling is.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis can help you avoid tooth decay that leads to dental fillings. Your dentist will urge you to follow a good oral hygiene routine after receiving a temporary dental filling but with some modifications. Your teeth can be sensitive after the procedure, so you must be cautious with your brushing and flossing techniques.
Use a soft bristle toothbrush and go over the section with the filling gently and slowly. You don’t want to press too hard on the tooth or around the gumline as this can cause you discomfort and impact the filling.
Be gentle yet thorough when you floss. Experts recommend removing the floss by pulling it through the side of the tooth instead of up to limit sensitivity, especially if your filling reaches the edge of your tooth.
Contact Your Dentist With Concerns
Your dentist will tell you how to look after your dental filling so it settles properly. Follow their instructions and don’t hesitate to call them.if you have any questions or concerns. Remember that tooth sensitivity is normal for the first few days but if you feel consistent discomfort after that initial period, it’s best to consult your dentist.
Reach out to Coast Family Dental if you need an experienced dentist to place a temporary dental filling. Call (07) 5437 9000 or book online to schedule an appointment and learn more.
