Recently, you visited your dentist to find out that there were a few cavities. To fix the problem, your trusted dentist in Canoga Park recommended a filling procedure to fill in the cavity and stop the spread of decay. You want to ensure that your new filling lasts a long time and doesn’t cause any problems in the future. Let’s look at how to take care of dental fillings.
How to Take Care of Dental Fillings
We know how frustrating it can be to have cavities, which is why we offer fillings as a hassle-free treatment for patients looking to improve their dental health. But it doesn’t stop there; we know how important it is to take good care of your dental fillings so that you don’t have the misfortune of getting them filled again. Below, we talk about how to take care of dental fillings at home as part of your daily dental hygiene routine.
Invest in a New Brushing Routine
The area around your new fillings, including the filling itself, will become very sensitive for a few days. Brushing and flossing your teeth can continue as usual. Be gentle. Bristles can cause damage to your new fillings, especially if they haven’t set in fully yet. You should take it slow when you brush for a while.
You need to think about the enamel as well as the fillings. This protective layer protects teeth against staining and decay. However, it can be damaged in many ways. Enamel can be regrown, but it may cause sensitive teeth. As the enamel is still being rebuilt, we recommend that you not brush it immediately after eating.
Know Your Filling Type
Dentists can fill cavities with a variety of materials. A composite filling is the most common and popular type of filling. It feels and looks exactly like the material that your tooth is made from. However, it is possible to have had other fillings such as:
- Amalgran (silver)
- Inomer or polymer glass
- Ceramic
- Gold
Our team fills cavities with composite fillings. However, there may be other types that you need, and you can schedule a personal consultation with us to find out what will work best for you. To determine the best type of filling, we take the time to get to know your individual needs with an initial appointment.
Avoid Hard Foods At All Times
Hard foods should be avoided when your mouth is still healing from a new cavity filling. Your tooth will essentially be raw, so that it will be difficult to chew hard substances such as candy and nuts. Make sure to stock up on your favorite soft foods such as yogurt, pasta, applesauce, and ice cream!
Stay Away From Extreme Temperatures, Too
You might notice that hot and cold temperatures make your mouth feel incredibly sensitive – perhaps even painful. This is because your tooth’s enamel, which is the protective outer layer, is worn down to make room for the cavity filling. This leaves your tooth exposed to the elements, which can make eating something hot or frozen an uncomfortable experience. Make sure to avoid foods that will cause your mouth more pain while it’s still healing.
Learn More About Fillings Today
Cavities are no fun, but they are a common problem that we offer a simple solution to. If you want to learn more about getting top-notch dental fillings in Canoga Park, reach out to our friendly dentists today and schedule your first personal consultation. We can help design a treatment plan that works to empower your dental health and well-being. Call us today to find out how you can take care of your dental fillings and invest in a lifetime of oral health at Brite Smile Dental today!
