How to Care for Your Teeth After a Dental Filling: Do's and Don'ts for Rockville Residents
Dental fillings are a common and effective way to restore teeth that have been damaged by cavities. However, taking care of your teeth after a filling is crucial to ensure the filling lasts as long as possible and to prevent any complications. Dr. Sean Bahrami at Rockville Dental Suite is dedicated to providing top-notch dental care to ensure your smile stays healthy and strong. In this post, we'll go over some important do's and don'ts to help you care for your dental fillings.
What to Do After a Dental Filling
1. Be Gentle with Your Teeth
- Right after your filling, your mouth may feel numb for a few hours. During this time, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the filling is located to prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
- Once the numbness wears off, start with soft foods that don't require much chewing. This helps you ease into using the tooth with the new filling.
2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
- Brush your teeth gently, focusing on the area around the filling. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid putting too much pressure on the new filling.
- Floss regularly, but do so with care. Make sure not to snap the floss into your gums, as this can cause irritation.
3. Pay Attention to Sensitivity
- It's normal to experience some sensitivity to hot or cold foods after getting a filling. This usually goes away within a few days. If the sensitivity persists or worsens, contact Dr. Bahrami to ensure everything is healing properly.
4. Visit Your Dentist for Follow-Ups
- Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the condition of your fillings. During these visits, Dr. Bahrami can ensure that the fillings are still intact and that there are no signs of decay around them.
What to Avoid After a Dental Filling
1. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
- Foods like hard candies, ice, and sticky snacks like caramel can damage your new filling or even dislodge it. Stick to softer foods, especially in the first few days after your procedure.
2. Don’t Chew on Non-Food Items
- Chewing on pens, fingernails, or other non-food items can put unnecessary pressure on your fillings, leading to cracks or breaks. Be mindful of these habits to protect your dental work.
3. Avoid Grinding Your Teeth
- If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, especially at night, this can wear down your fillings over time. Consider using a mouthguard while sleeping to protect both your fillings and your natural teeth.
Long-Term Care Tips
To keep your fillings—and the rest of your teeth—in good shape, follow these long-term care tips:
- Regular Dental Visits: Regular check-ups with Dr. Bahrami at Rockville Dental Suite help catch any potential issues early.
- Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet with limited sugar helps prevent cavities and extends the life of your fillings.
- Oral Hygiene Routine: Keep brushing twice a day and flossing daily to maintain a healthy mouth.
Book Your Appointment Today!
If you have any concerns about your dental fillings or need to schedule a check-up, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Sean Bahrami at Rockville Dental Suite. Our team is here to ensure your dental health remains top-notch. Book your appointment today and take the next step towards a healthier, happier smile!