After getting a tooth filling, it’s essential to take good care of your teeth to speed up the healing process and avoid any complications. The filling procedure involved removing decayed parts of your tooth and filling the cavity with a specific material to prevent further damage.
Here are 5 things you should avoid after your tooth filling.
1) Avoid Eating or Drinking Immediately after the Procedure
After getting a tooth filling, it’s crucial to give your mouth some time to rest and heal. Avoid eating or drinking anything immediately after the procedure, especially if you received local anesthesia or sedation.
The numbness can make it challenging to chew or swallow properly, increasing the risk of biting your tongue or cheek. Moreover, consuming hot or cold foods and beverages can cause sensitivity or pain in the filled tooth.
2) Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
After a tooth filling, you should avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage the filling or dislodge it from your tooth. Hard foods such as nuts, candies, and ice can cause cracks or fractures in the filling material, making it more susceptible to bacteria and decay.
Sticky foods such as caramel, gum, and taffy can pull the filling out of your tooth or loosen it from its place. It’s best to stick to soft and easy-to-chew foods such as soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies until the filling sets completely.
3) Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking and tobacco products can harm your oral health, especially after a tooth filling. Smoking can cause dry mouth, reducing saliva production and increasing bacterial growth and infection risk.
Tobacco products can also stain the filling material and your teeth, making them look unsightly and discolored. Moreover, smoking and chewing tobacco can delay healing and cause complications such as gum disease and tooth decay.
4) Avoid Brushing and Flossing Vigorously
After getting a tooth filling, you should avoid brushing and flossing your teeth vigorously, especially around the filled tooth. Brushing too hard can cause the filling material to wear off or become loose, exposing the sensitive part of your tooth.
Flossing too forcefully can also dislodge the filling or cause gum irritation and bleeding. It’s best to brush and floss your teeth gently and use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
5) Avoid Delaying Your Next Dental Appointment
After getting a tooth filling, following up with your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings is crucial. Delaying your next dental appointment can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Your dentist can monitor the condition of your filling and recommend any necessary treatments or adjustments. Regular cleanings can also remove plaque and tartar buildup, preventing further decay and infection.
Conclusion
Getting a tooth filling is a straightforward procedure that can save your tooth from further damage and decay. However, taking good care of your teeth after the procedure is essential to ensure a speedy recovery and prevent any complications. By following these tips, you can boost your oral health and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile.
Get your tooth filling procedure from a dentist you can trust. Manassas Smiles is the best dental clinic in Manassas, that aim to give you the highest quality dental care. Get in touch with us today to learn how.
