How to Care for Your Dental Fillings

Ensure Your Tooth Colored Filling Lasts

At Larson Dental, our Prescott Valley, AZ dentist wants to help you achieve longevity with your dental fillings. Dental fillings are used to restore the function and structure of teeth lost to decay, trauma, or wear. To ensure your dental filling lasts as long as possible, you’ll want to properly care for them.

There are various dental filling options available, and the choice of material depends on the location and extent of the decay, as well as cosmetic considerations.

Our Prescott Valley, AZ dentist walks you through how to properly care for your new filling. To schedule an appointment, contact our dental office today by calling (928) 772-8128.

Dental Filling Care

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

After getting your dental filling procedure, you’ll want to stick to a consistent oral hygiene routine. Regular brushing and flossing are crucial for keeping your dental fillings clean and free from bacteria. Decay causing bacteria can lead to further tooth decay if oral hygiene is neglected. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss between your teeth daily to remove plaque and food particles that can contribute to decay and gum disease.

Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

To avoid damaging your dental filling or causing gum irritation, opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard-bristled brushes can potentially wear down the filling material or cause the edges to become rough, leading to premature wear or discomfort.

Avoid Excessive Force

While brushing, be gentle and avoid applying excessive force when cleaning around the dental filling. Vigorous brushing or using a hard-bristled brush can put 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. Sweet foods, such as candies and desserts, can contribute to the development of cavities and should be limited to help protect your teeth and dental fillings. Minimize your consumption of acidic beverages like soda, citrus juices, and sports drinks. Reduce your intake of sugary snacks, candies, and desserts. If you do consume these foods, rinse your mouth with water afterward to help neutralize acids and reduce the risk of developing another dental cavity.

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 essential for monitoring the condition of your dental filling. Our Prescott Valley, AZ dentist will examine the fillings during your visits and ensure they’re intact and functioning properly. Regular check-ups also help detect recurrent decay, which can develop under or around existing fillings and may not be visible without a professional evaluation. Regular cleanings and examinations also allow our dentist to detect any signs of decay, infection, or damage early on.

If a filling is damaged or recurrent decay is found, a replacement filling may be necessary to restore your tooth’s health and function.

Report Sensitivity or Discomfort

If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, pain, or discomfort around your dental fillings, it’s crucial to report it to your dentist promptly. Tooth sensitivity following placement of a filling is fairly common and usually resolves within a few weeks. If sensitivity persists, your dentist may apply a desensitizing agent to help reduce discomfort and improve your comfort. 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 that’s 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Prioritize Dental Filling Aftercare for Long-lasting Oral Health

By following these dental filling aftercare instructions, you can help maintain the integrity of your fillings and promote good oral health. Contact our Prescott Valley, AZ dentists by giving us a call at (928) 772-8128 if you have any concerns or questions regarding your dental fillings or oral hygiene routine.