Dental fillings are a common procedure to restore teeth affected by decay or damage. Following a filling, proper care is important to ensure its longevity and prevent discomfort. Taking certain precautions immediately after the procedure is crucial for a smooth recovery and to allow the new filling material to settle properly.
Dietary Considerations
After a tooth filling, be mindful of what you eat and drink. Avoiding extremely hot or cold items is advisable, as the newly filled tooth may experience sensitivity to temperature changes.
Sticky foods, such as caramel, chewing gum, or taffy, should be avoided as they can pull on the new filling, potentially dislodging it. Hard and crunchy foods, including nuts, ice, hard candies, or raw apples, can exert excessive pressure on the filled tooth, which might damage the new material or even cause it to crack. Limit acidic beverages and sugary foods, as they can erode tooth enamel and promote bacterial growth around the filling, potentially leading to new decay. Chewing on the opposite side of the mouth from the newly filled tooth can help prevent undue pressure and allow the filling to settle undisturbed.
Oral Care Adjustments
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important after a filling, but adjustments to your routine are necessary. When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply gentle pressure around the filled tooth. The gums around the treated area might be tender, so gentle circular motions are recommended to clean effectively without causing irritation.
Flossing is still necessary to remove plaque and debris, but it should be done carefully around the new filling. Avoid vigorous flossing, especially if the filling is very new or large, to prevent dislodging it. For mouthwash, wait at least 24 hours after the procedure. Alcohol-free options are preferred as alcohol can cause stinging or dryness and may weaken certain filling materials.
Managing Numbness
Local anesthetic is used during filling procedures to prevent discomfort, but it results in temporary numbness that can last for a few hours. The duration of numbness ranges from 2 to 6 hours. During this period, avoid biting or chewing on the numb cheek, lip, or tongue to prevent accidental injury.
Waiting until the numbness has completely subsided before eating or drinking, especially hot liquids, is important. The lack of sensation can make it difficult to gauge temperature or control chewing, increasing the risk of burns or biting soft tissues. If numbness persists longer than expected, beyond 6 hours, contact your dentist.
Avoiding Harmful Habits
Certain habits can compromise the integrity and longevity of a new tooth filling. Clenching or grinding teeth, also known as bruxism, can exert significant pressure on dental restorations, potentially leading to wear, cracks, or even dislodgement of the filling. If you experience symptoms of grinding, particularly if the bite feels uneven after the filling, consult your dentist for evaluation and possible adjustment.
Using teeth as tools, such as opening packages, biting nails, or chewing on pens, can also damage new fillings. These actions place undue stress on the teeth and their restorations, increasing the risk of chipping, fracturing, or loosening the filling material. Avoiding such habits helps protect the dental work and maintain overall oral health.