What Not To Do When You Get Tooth Fillings

Despite numerous improvements in dentistry, most adults still suffer from cavities or dental caries. A cavity often develops when acids from oral bacteria and foods erode the teeth’ enamel, causing tiny holes and openings. It allows bacteria, plaque, and acids to enter and eat through the tooth. Ultimately, untreated decay or cavities lead to tooth loss and other complications.

A dental filling is a cost-effective and reliable solution for those with dental cavities or decay. The treatment involves removing the decayed or damaged parts of the tooth, dental exam and cleaning and disinfecting the tooth and filling the holes or spaces left with a dental filling material. Dental filling materials include amalgam, composite, gold, ceramic, and glass ionomer.

8 Things to Avoid After Getting Fillings

Regardless of the dental filling type, excellent oral hygiene and care are essential to maintain your filling in perfect condition and protect the filled tooth long term. This article highlights things you shouldn’t do after getting a dental filling.

Do not disturb the filling

While it might be tempting to touch the dental filling with your finger, toothpick, or tongue, do not, especially if you just had your filling installed. The filling needs several hours to settle and harden completely. Touching or playing with your filling can cause it to dislodge, causing unnecessary tension and an additional procedure.

Do not eat hard or sticky foods

While your filling might feel stiff or settled, it may need more time to harden completely. Therefore, you should avoid hard or chewy foods like chocolate, candy, nuts, and bone meat for at least 24 to 48 hours. Instead, choose soft or liquid foods like mashed potatoes, eggs, oatmeal, avocado, fish, and yogurt.

Avoid hot beverages

The filling bonding material might still be fresh and soft in the next few hours. Therefore, a hot cup of tea or coffee isn’t a great idea as it can soften the filling and cause it to fall out. Similarly, hot beverages can irritate the already sores gums around the filling, increasing your sensitivity.

Do not grind your teeth

Do you grind your teeth when sleeping? Unfortunately, bruxism can cause your filling to wear off, dislodge, or chip. It can also cause teeth damage and significant oral discomfort. Wearing a mouthguard can help protect your filling and teeth and prevent oral discomfort.

Avoid smoking and highly pigmented items

If you have a tooth-colored filling like composite, you should refrain from tobacco or consuming highly pigmented foods like coffee, tea, soda, and sauces for the next 48 hours. These items can cause your filling to stains, making your smile less attractive. And unlike natural teeth, you can’t whiten dental restorations like once-stained fillings. You may need a new filing or restoration like a crown, if stained.

Don’t ignore serious symptoms

Once the anesthetic wears off, it’s normal to experience minor side effects like pain or sensitivity in or around the filled tooth. Fortunately, these effects should settle within a few days.

If you experience severe or worsening pain or swelling around a filling, it could indicate a problem. For instance, the filling might be incorrectly positioned, or a nerve was damaged during the installation. Whatever the cause, you should call or visit your dentist right away.

Avoid acidic and sugary items

Immediately after getting a filling, your tooth or gums may be sensitive to temperatures, acids, and sugar. You should avoid acidic, spicy, or sugary foods and beverages for at least 24 hours.

Do not ignore good oral hygiene

Good oral hygiene is crucial to keep your mouth clean and avoid future infections. Not brushing or flossing daily can cause infections around the filling and other teeth. Immediately after a filling, avoid brushing directly on the filling as it might still be soft. After 24 hours, you should be able to brush normally. Still, do it gently.

Looking for Dental Fillings in Sharon, MA?

Are you interested in a cavity dental filling? Contact Sharon Dental Group to book your dentist consultation today.