A dental filling is a restorative procedure where a dentist removes decayed tooth material and fills the resulting space with a material like composite resin or metal amalgam. This process restores the tooth’s shape and function, preventing further decay. Flossing remains a necessary part of your daily oral hygiene routine, even with a new filling, to remove plaque and food particles from tight spaces a toothbrush cannot reach. The immediate aftermath of the procedure requires caution and a modified technique to protect the newly placed restoration.
Immediate Waiting Period
Wait until the local anesthetic has completely worn off before flossing the area around the new filling. Numbness can last for a few hours, and flossing while your mouth is still desensitized could lead to accidental gum injury. The type of filling material used also influences the necessary waiting time before resuming full oral care.
If you received a tooth-colored composite resin filling, the material is hardened instantly by a special blue curing light before you leave the dental office. This immediate hardening means the filling is strong enough for flossing right away. Conversely, a traditional silver amalgam filling requires a longer period, sometimes up to 24 hours, to achieve its final strength. Waiting until the next day ensures the amalgam is fully set before applying pressure from flossing.
Flossing Technique Around the Restoration
Once the initial waiting period has passed, resume flossing with modifications to ensure the restoration’s longevity. The core principle is to use gentle, controlled movements, especially when passing the floss through the contact point between the teeth. Use a fresh, clean section of floss for the filled tooth, as this provides maximum strength and glide.
Slide the floss carefully down into the space, curving it into a C-shape against the side of the tooth with the filling, and move it gently up and down to clean the surface. The technique for removing the floss is important for a new filling that extends to the side of the tooth. Rather than pulling the floss straight back up and “snapping” it through the tight contact point, which could potentially dislodge or chip the new material, release one end of the floss and pull the strand out through the side. This side-removal technique minimizes pressure on the filling material and adjacent margins.
Troubleshooting Floss Snagging
A common concern after a new restoration is when the floss begins to shred, tear, or consistently snag around the filled tooth. If your floss is catching, this often indicates that the surface or edge of the filling is not perfectly smooth. This issue may be caused by an overhang, which is excess filling material extending beyond the tooth’s natural margin into the gum line.
Floss snagging can also point to a rough margin where the filling meets the natural tooth structure, or an improperly contoured contact point between the teeth. These imperfections create a trap for plaque and bacteria, making the area impossible to clean effectively and potentially leading to new decay or gum irritation. If you notice persistent shredding or a rough sensation, contact your dental office. The filling typically requires a simple adjustment or polishing by the dentist to smooth the rough surface and restore proper contour.