What Not to Do After Getting Dental Fillings
If you have a tooth cavity, your dentist may recommend a tooth filling to salvage your tooth natural structure. The treatment involves removing the decayed parts of the tooth, cleaning the affected area, and applying amalgam or composite fillings. Composite fillings are the most commonly used and are suitable if you have cavities that form near the gum line and don’t involve your teeth roots. This painless and simple process only requires a short session at Winter Haven Dental in Florida. Although most people overlook caring for dental fillings, it is one area you need to be keen about if you want your fillings to last.
Here are some of the things you shouldn’t do if you have a tooth filling:
Touching the Tooth Filling
It isn’t recommended to touch your tooth filling, especially after you’ve just had the procedure. Anesthetics may make the areas surrounding your tooth numb. Also, the filling will need to settle, and you mustn’t try to alter its position if you feel it is loose. Instead, call our dentist near you, who will be able to help. Even when your filling is in place, don’t touch or play with it.
Ignoring Sensitivity
It isn’t uncommon to experience tooth sensitivity in the initial days after the treatment. This is because, for deeper fillings, the filling could be closer to the nerves. However, if the sensitivity persists past one week, it could signify that the filling isn’t in the right position or there is a huger problem. If this happens to you, head to your dentist for a checkup.
Ignoring Pain
Naturally, you could ignore your pain hoping it varnishes. However, this isn’t the best thing to do if you have fillings, as it increases the risk of further infection. Also, if your dental filling is loose, bacteria may easily penetrate. If the pain persists even after taking pain relievers, it is an indication that a professional should check your tooth condition.
Grinding Your Teeth
Grinding and clenching of teeth could damage your teeth and fillings. Therefore, if you have pre-existing medical conditions such as bruxism, it is important to let our dentist near you know beforehand. Grinding could wear down your fillings, causing chips and increasing sensitivity.
Eating Sticky or Chewy Foods
To ensure the longevity of your fillings, your dentist may ask that you make some changes to your diet. You may be asked to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods for a few weeks. If you’re experiencing sensitivity, avoid too hot or cold foods and beverages. Instead, opt for softer foods such as soup, oatmeal, eggs, vegetables, and boiled potatoes. While at it, stick to your oral care routine.
Biting Too Hard
Biting down too hard could damage your fillings as they cannot handle a lot of pressure. The larger your fillings, the weaker they are. Therefore, if you want your fillings to last, bite down a little more gently.
Neglecting Your Dental Health
The fact that you have gotten dental fillings only means that you have to up your oral care game. In addition to brushing twice daily and flossing daily, ensure you attend regular checkups and professional cleanings for your dentist to monitor the treatment progress.
Consuming Sugary Foods
Besides potentially triggering sensitivity, sugary beverages and foods also promote bacteria growth around your restoration.
Chewing With an Open Mouth
If you are experiencing increased tooth sensitivity, then the slightest cold could trigger discomfort. By chewing with a closed mouth, you reduce the chances of cold air entering your mouth.
Biting Your Cheek
The side of your mouth receiving the filling will be numbed. Therefore, it is advisable to chew using the other side until the anesthetic dies down. This is because, with the numbness, you might accidentally bite down on your tongue or cheek on that side of the mouth. In cases where you can’t feel both sides of your mouth, you might want to get a smoothie as you wait for the numbness to fade away.
Getting Dental Fillings Near You
Are you in Florida or its environs and are looking for a reputable dental practice for dental fillings near you? Visit us today and forget your dental woes once and for all.