How to Make Your Dental Fillings Last Longer
At Petrie Advanced Dental, our Tacoma, WA, general dentist is committed to helping you maximize the lifespan of your dental fillings. Proper aftercare plays a crucial role in ensuring your tooth filling remains effective for years to come, protecting your teeth from further decay and sensitivity.
Ready to maintain your oral health? Contact our Tacoma dental office today at (253) 761-5422 to schedule your appointment.
Essential Dental Filling Aftercare Tips
Develop a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine
After completing your filling procedure, maintaining excellent oral hygiene becomes even more important. Many patients notice improved oral health when they:
- Brush at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Floss thoroughly between teeth every day to remove food particles and bacteria
- Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reach areas where brushing might miss
These practices help prevent bacteria buildup around your new filling and reduce your risk of developing additional cavities.
Choose the Right Dental Care Tools
The dental care tools you use make a significant difference in protecting your dental fillings:
- Soft-bristled toothbrush: Hard bristles can damage filling material and irritate gums
- Gentle brushing technique: Applying excessive force while brushing can compromise your filling’s integrity
- Water flossers: These can be particularly effective for cleaning around fillings without putting pressure on them
Watch What You Eat After Getting a Filling
Your diet plays a crucial role in dental filling longevity:
- Wait before eating: After receiving numbing medication during your filling procedure, wait until the numbness subsides before eating to avoid accidentally biting your lips or cheek
- Avoid sticky foods: Caramels, taffy, and chewing gum can potentially dislodge your filling
- Limit acidic and sugary foods: These can contribute to tooth decay around your filling
- Be cautious with hot and cold foods: Many patients experience tooth sensitivity to temperature extremes after getting a new filling
Know When to Contact Your Dentist
While some discomfort is normal after a filling procedure, certain symptoms warrant contacting your dentist:
- Persistent tooth sensitivity lasting more than two weeks
- Sharp pain when biting down
- Visible damage to your filling
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
- Signs of infection like swelling or fever
Early intervention can prevent minor issues from developing into problems requiring more extensive treatments like a root canal.
Maintain Regular Dental Checkups
Scheduling regular appointments with our Tacoma dentist allows us to:
- Monitor the condition of your existing fillings
- Check for signs of wear or damage
- Address any concerns before they become serious
- Professionally clean areas around fillings that are difficult to reach at home
Types of Dental Fillings and Their Care Requirements
Different filling materials may require slightly different care approaches:
- Amalgam fillings: These traditional silver-colored fillings are durable but may cause tooth sensitivity to temperature changes
- Composite fillings: These tooth-colored fillings blend with your natural smile but may require more careful maintenance
- Glass ionomer fillings: Often used for cavity fillings below the gum line, these release fluoride but may be less durable
Our dentist will provide specific care instructions based on the type of filling you receive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I identify signs of a cavity?
Common symptoms of tooth decay include:
- Rough edges on teeth
- Toothache or discomfort when consuming sweet, hot, or cold items
- Visible holes or discoloration on tooth surfaces
- Persistent bad breath despite brushing
- Sensitivity to pressure when chewing
How will my dentist determine if my filling needs replacement?
During your checkup, your dentist will:
- Test for sensitivity around the filled tooth
- Visually examine your fillings for signs of wear or damage
- Take dental X-rays to assess the condition beneath the filling
- Check for decay that might be developing around the filling edges
What should I expect immediately after getting a new filling?
After your filling procedure:
- Your bite might feel slightly different as you adjust to the new filling
- The numbing medication will gradually wear off, resulting in returning sensation to your lips, tongue, and jaw
- Some sensitivity to temperature and pressure is normal for several days
Protect Your Smile with Professional Dental Care in Tacoma
By following these dental filling aftercare recommendations, you’re taking important steps to protect your oral health and extend the life of your fillings. Remember that proper care not only preserves your dental work but also helps prevent the need for more extensive dental treatments in the future.
For personalized advice about caring for your dental fillings or to address any concerns about tooth sensitivity or discomfort, contact our Tacoma dental office at (253) 761-5422. We proudly serve patients throughout the Tacoma area, including Lakewood, Puyallup, Federal Way, Gig Harbor, and University Place.
