Did you know that properly caring for your dental fillings can significantly extend their lifespan and keep your smile healthy?
Though this is the case, many people are unsure of how to maintain them effectively. Common issues like discomfort and occasional damage can arise. It leaves you wondering if there is more you could be doing to protect your dental work.
In this blog, we will explore expert tips on how to take care of your dental fillings. From maintaining good oral hygiene to dietary considerations, we will cover everything you need to know. Ensuring your fillings last and your oral health remains in top shape. Let us dive into it!
How To Take Care of Dental Fillings: What Do The Experts Say?
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brush Regularly
Brush your teeth a minimum of two times a day using toothpaste that contains fluoride. This helps prevent tooth decay around the filling.
Floss Daily
Floss between your teeth daily. This is to remove food particles and plaque that your toothbrush cannot reach.
Use Mouthwash
Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash. It reduces bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease.
Be Careful with Your Diet
Avoid Hard Foods
Hard foods like ice, hard candy, and nuts can crack or dislodge fillings.
Limit Sugary and Sticky Foods
Sugary and sticky foods can cause cavities around the edges of your fillings. If you consume them, brush your teeth soon after.
Watch Acidic Foods and Drinks
Acidic foods and drinks can wear down fillings over time. Try to limit consumption of citrus fruits, sodas, and vinegar-based foods.
Be Aware of Changes
Sensitivity
It is normal to have some sensitivity after a filling. But, if it persists beyond a few weeks or worsens, contact your dentist.
Discomfort
If you feel discomfort when biting or chewing, your filling might be too high. Your dentist can adjust it.
Damage
Regularly check your fillings for any signs of damage. Such as cracks or rough edges. If you notice any damage, see your dentist immediately.
Regular Dental Checkups
Routine Visits
Visit your dentist often for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can check the condition of your fillings and identify any issues early.
Professional Cleaning
Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that you cannot remove at home. This reduces the risk of decay around your fillings.
Avoid Teeth Grinding
Wear a Mouthguard
It is best to ask your dentist about a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night. Grinding can wear down or damage fillings.
Manage Stress
Stress can contribute to teeth grinding. Try to manage stress through relaxation techniques or therapy if needed.
Handle Filling Problems Promptly
Address Issues As Soon As Possible
If a filling falls out or if you experience significant pain, contact your dentist immediately. Do not ignore these issues as they can lead to more serious dental problems.
The Importance of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings help to maintain oral health as they:
Prevents Further Tooth Decay
When a tooth is damaged by decay, it creates a cavity. A cavity is also known as a hole in the tooth. If this cavity is not treated, the decay can spread deeper into the tooth.
This will then lead to more extensive damage and potentially cause severe pain and infection. Fillings help to restore the damaged tooth. It prevents further decay and maintains the tooth’s structure and function.
Protects the Inner Layers of the Tooth
Dental fillings also protect the inner layers of the tooth. This includes the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Without this protection, the decay can reach the pulp. Hence resulting in a painful condition known as pulpitis.
This can require more complex and costly treatments. For example, root canal therapy or potentially the removal of the tooth. Thus, fillings are essential in avoiding such complications and preserving your natural teeth.
Maintains Your Overall Oral Function
Moreover, dental fillings help restore the tooth’s normal shape and function. Allowing you to chew and speak properly. A filling also prevents the surrounding teeth from shifting and misaligning, which can cause bite problems and additional oral health issues.
By addressing cavities early with fillings, you can maintain a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Types of Dental Fillings
Each type of dental filling listed below has its advantages and disadvantages. Your dentist will help you choose the best type of filling based on the location and size of the cavity. They will also consider your dental health needs and your budget.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings, often known as silver fillings, are made from a mixture of metals including silver, mercury, tin, and copper.
They are known for their durability and strength. Thus making them suitable for filling cavities in the back teeth where chewing pressure is greatest.
Although they are less expensive, their metallic colour makes them less aesthetically pleasing compared to other types.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings consist of a blend of plastic and fine glass particles. These fillings can be colour-matched to your natural teeth. This makes them an excellent choice for visible areas such as the front teeth.
Also, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure. Hence, it provides additional support for your tooth. However, they may not be as durable as amalgam fillings, especially for large cavities.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are crafted from a gold alloy and possess excellent durability. They can last many years, often decades. They are highly compatible with gum tissues and are regarded as very durable.
However, gold fillings are more expensive and require multiple dental visits to place. Their noticeable colour makes them a less common choice for visible areas of the mouth.
Porcelain Fillings
Also called inlays or onlays, porcelain fillings are customised in a dental laboratory. They are then bonded to the tooth. They can be matched to the colour of your teeth and are very resistant to staining.
Porcelain fillings are durable and provide a natural appearance. But, just like gold fillings, they can be more costly and require multiple visits to complete.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
This type of filling is made of a blend of glass and acrylic. They release fluoride over time, which helps protect the tooth from further decay.
These fillings are used for cavities that occur below the gum line or for children’s teeth. While they are less durable than other types, their ability to release fluoride provides additional cavity protection.
Signs That May Indicate Infection After A Dental Filling
After receiving a dental filling, it is important that you monitor your mouth for any signs of infection. An infection can occur if bacteria enter the tooth through the filling. It can also happen if the filling does not properly seal the cavity. When you recognise these signs, seek immediate treatment.
Persistent Pain
Some discomfort is normal after a filling. But, if it is persistent or the pain worsens, it can indicate an infection. This pain might be constant or triggered by chewing, biting, or exposure to hot and cold temperatures.
Swelling and Redness
Swelling and redness around the filled tooth or in the gums nearby can be a sign of infection. This swelling may be accompanied by tenderness or a throbbing sensation. In severe cases, you might notice swelling in your face or neck. When this happens, you require immediate medical attention.
Sensitivity to Temperature
Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages that persists for more than a few days after the filling can be a sign of infection. This sensitivity may indicate that the infection has reached the inner layers of the tooth, affecting the nerves and blood vessels.
Discharge or Bad Taste
Another clear sign of infection is an unpleasant taste in your mouth or the presence of discharge (pus) near the filled tooth. The discharge might have a foul smell and can cause bad breath.
Fever
A fever can be a systemic sign that your body is fighting an infection. If you experience a fever along with other symptoms like pain, swelling, or discharge, it is important to seek dental care immediately. A fever indicates that the infection might be spreading and needs immediate treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Dental Fillings
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are materials used by dentists to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury. They restore the normal shape, strength, and function of the tooth.
Can I Replace My Old Fillings?
Yes, old fillings can be replaced if they are worn, broken, or if decay has developed around them. Your dentist can advise whether replacement is necessary based on your individual circumstances.
When Should I Replace My Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings should be replaced when they show signs of wear, damage, or if there is new decay around the filling. Regular dental checkups will help determine the right time for replacement.
Can I Eat and Drink Right After a Dental Filling?
It is best to wait until the anaesthesia wears off before eating or drinking to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. Your dentist will give you specific instructions based on the type of filling you receive. Avoid eating solid food that requires a lot of chewing, and opt for food that is smooth and soft until the filling has set.
Is It Normal for My Tooth to Be Sensitive and Painful After a Dental Filling?
Some sensitivity and pain are normal after a filling. But if it persists beyond a few days or becomes severe, contact your dentist. This could indicate that the filling was not set correctly or that it might be infected.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material used, the location of the filling, and your oral hygiene habits. On average:
- Amalgam fillings: 10-15 years
- Composite fillings: 5-10 years
- Gold fillings: 15-30 years
- Porcelain fillings: 10-15 years
- Glass ionomer fillings: 3-5 years
What Painkiller is Best To Take After Dental Fillings?
Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol (Panadol) are usually effective in managing pain after a dental filling. Follow your dentist’s recommendations for pain management.
What Should I Expect After Getting a Filling?
It is common to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages immediately after getting a filling. This sensitivity usually diminishes over a few days. If it persists, contact your dentist.
Can Fillings Fall Out?
Fillings can fall out due to wear and tear, decay around the filling, or trauma to the tooth. If a filling falls out, it is important to contact your dentist immediately. This is to avoid further damage or infection.
How Do I Know If I Need a Filling?
Signs that you might need a filling include tooth pain, sensitivity, visible holes or dark spots on your teeth, and pain when biting or chewing. Regular dental checkups can help detect cavities early.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are generally safe. But, there might be certain risks, such as allergic reactions to the filling material, sensitivity, and infection if the filling is not properly placed. Discuss any concerns with your dentist before the procedure.
How Much Do Fillings Cost?
The price of dental fillings depends on the material used and the size and location of the cavity. It also varies based on your dental insurance coverage.
Is Getting a Filling Painful?
Rest assured you will not feel any pain. Dentists sometimes use local anaesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth during the procedure. You might experience some discomfort or sensitivity afterward, which usually subsides within a few days.
Why Choose Us?
At The Braces Practice, we offer more than just dental braces. We provide comprehensive dental care in a convenient, patient-centred environment. As a one-stop, full-service clinic, we are committed to delivering quality and expertise in every aspect of orthodontic treatment. Our team of orthodontic practitioners holds qualified certifications, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care.
We prioritise your convenience with extended weekday hours and weekend availability. Accommodating busy schedules without compromising on quality. Located conveniently in Holland Village and near Bedok MRT, our clinic is easily accessible. Thus making it effortless for you to prioritise your oral health. Choose us for exceptional orthodontic care and a seamless dental experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
In short, taking care of your dental fillings is important. It includes maintaining good oral hygiene and being mindful of your diet. You should also monitor for any changes or discomfort and have regular dental checkups. Also, avoid teeth grinding and address problems immediately. By following these tips, you can ensure your fillings last longer and maintain good oral health.
If you need any help or have questions, send us a message. We will reply as soon as we can. Feel free to explore our blog section for more information and tips about oral health.
