How to Care for a New Dental Filling

Receiving a new dental filling can significantly improve both the functionality and appearance of your teeth. However, ensuring that your filling remains in excellent condition requires proper care and attention. At Smiles and Grins, we want to help you maintain your dental health and prolong the life of your fillings.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your new dental filling.

Immediate Care After Getting a Filling

Numbness Management

After getting a dental filling, your mouth might remain numb for several hours due to the local anesthetic used during the procedure. Be cautious not to bite your cheek, tongue, or lips while the numbness persists. Avoid chewing food until the numbness completely wears off to prevent accidental injury.

Sensitivity to Temperature

It’s common to experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures immediately after getting a filling. This sensitivity typically subsides within a few days to a few weeks. To minimize discomfort, avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks during this period. Gradually, your tooth will adjust to the filling, and the sensitivity will decrease.

Long-Term Care for Your Dental Filling

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Consistent oral hygiene is crucial for the longevity of your dental filling. Here are some key practices to follow:

• Brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the filling.
• Flossing: Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth and around the filling. This helps prevent decay and gum disease.
• Mouthwash: Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria that could lead to decay around the filling.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

Certain foods can damage or dislodge your filling. To protect your dental work, avoid:

• Hard Foods: Ice, hard candies, nuts, and popcorn kernels can crack or break your filling.
• Sticky Foods: Caramel, toffee, and chewing gum can pull at your filling and increase the risk of it coming loose.

Be Mindful of Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding (bruxism) can wear down or damage your filling. If you grind your teeth, especially at night, consider using a mouthguard. Your dentist can provide a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth and fillings from the effects of grinding.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring the condition of your fillings and overall oral health. During these visits, your dentist will:

• Examine the Filling: Check for any signs of wear, damage, or decay around the filling.
• Professional Cleaning: Provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar build-up that regular brushing and flossing might miss.
• Preventive Care: Offer advice and preventive treatments to help maintain the health of your teeth and fillings.

Signs of Filling Problems

Despite proper care, issues with fillings can occasionally arise. Be aware of the following signs that may indicate a problem with your filling:

• Pain or Sensitivity: While some sensitivity after getting a filling is normal, persistent or severe pain can indicate an issue. This could be due to the filling being too high, an underlying infection, or other complications.
• Rough or Sharp Edges: If you notice rough or sharp edges on your filling, it might be a sign of wear or damage. This can irritate your tongue and gums, so it’s important to have it smoothed or repaired by your dentist.
• Discoloration: Fillings, particularly composite (tooth-colored) ones, can discolor over time due to staining from food and drinks. If the discoloration is significant, your dentist can polish or replace the filling.
• Cracks or Gaps: Visible cracks or gaps around the filling can allow bacteria to enter and cause decay. If you notice any irregularities, contact your dentist promptly to have the filling assessed and repaired.

When to Contact Your Dentist

It’s important to contact your dentist if you experience any of the following issues:

• Persistent Pain: Ongoing pain or sensitivity beyond a few weeks after getting a filling.
• Filling Falls Out: If your filling falls out or becomes loose, it needs immediate attention to prevent further decay or damage.
• Swelling or Infection: Swelling, redness, or pus around the filled tooth may indicate an infection that requires prompt treatment.

How Smiles and Grins Can Help

Caring for a new dental filling involves a combination of immediate post-procedure care and long-term maintenance. By following good oral hygiene practices, avoiding certain foods, and scheduling regular dental check-ups, you can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your filling. 

At Smiles and Grins, we’re committed to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If you have any questions or concerns about your dental filling, don’t hesitate to contact us. Your oral health is our top priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.