How to Care for a Dental Filling

After getting a dental filling, you might be wondering about the right way to keep it in good condition. Many people do not realize that even though fillings work well, they do not last forever. With the right care, you can make your filling last for many years to come. Keep reading to learn more about how to make dental fillings last.

Why dental fillings are important

Without treatment, the decay in a tooth can spread to the softer parts of a tooth. If the dental decay reaches the pulp of the tooth, it might be too late for a filling. A root canal or an extraction would be the only option in that case. For this reason, dentists want to fill cavities as soon as possible.

When a dentist is restoring a tooth, all of the decay will be removed. Then the area will be backed with a material to fil the tooth. The material will restore the tooth to the natural shape and allow it to function again. When the filling is done, it can prevent decay and keep bacteria away.

Helping a dental filling to last

After getting a filling, the care will be the same as for the rest of the teeth. The key to taking care of dental fillings is to stop decay from entering the area again. The tooth can be more susceptible to bacteria than if it had never had a cavity. After having a filling, patients should continue to brush twice a day.

Fluoride toothpaste should be used for good results. The patient should also floss the teeth at least once a day. It is a good idea to avoid eating sticky or sugary snacks. Healthier options include crunchy fresh fruits and vegetables. It is also a good idea to get a mouthwash that does not have alcohol in it. That way, the bacteria in the mouth can be reduced.

Patients should avoid using tobacco products. This includes smoking and using chewing tobacco. To prevent stains on the filling, it is a good idea to avoid having foods that stain. This includes tea and coffee. Patients should rinse the mouth with water after drinking these beverages.

Juices and sodas both have acid in them. This can eat away at the tooth enamel and make it more susceptible to decay. It is a good idea to avoid these beverages and stick with water instead. To avoid loosening the filling, patients should not eat hard foods. Chewing ice is not considered to be good for the teeth.

Visit a dentist today

A dental filling can help save your tooth. By getting it filled now, you can avoid having painful procedures later on. With the right care, your filling can last for many years to come. Fillings do not require any extra care on your part. If you have a filling, you should visit your dentist once or twice a year for exams and cleanings. This will keep your teeth healthy.

Request an appointment here: https://totalcareimplantdentistry.com or call Total Care Dentistry & Implants at (760) 394-3088 for an appointment in our Palm Desert office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.