Dental fillings are the most common treatment for cavities, and although the minor procedure doesn’t cause excessive discomfort, a few simple filling aftercare tips can prevent setbacks and complications. Below, our team from Smile Perfection, the leading provider of dental fillings in Tucson, AZ, shares some important instructions for preventing post-filling issues and protecting your teeth.
Call the office at (520) 293-2166 if you have questions about how to take care of a filling. In the meantime, read on to learn more about what to do after you have a tooth filled to minimize discomfort and maximize oral health.
1. Continue Brushing and Flossing
There’s no reason to avoid your regular oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing after getting a filling. However, the area may still be sore, so be extra gentle and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent irritation.
Related Article: Types of Toothbrushes and When to Use Them
2. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Hot and cold foods and drinks can irritate your mouth and cause extra pain or discomfort after a dental filling. Avoid extra cold food and drinks like ice cream and iced drinks in favor of tepid water. You should also avoid hot soup, coffee, and tea for at least 12 hours after your dental procedure.
3. Eat Soft Foods
Eating hard or sticky foods right after a dental procedure can damage composite fillings, amalgam fillings, and silver fillings. Instead, enjoy soft foods like eggs, pudding, and yogurt during the filling aftercare period to prevent discomfort and damage. Foods to avoid include hard or sticky candy, nuts, tough meat, and jerky, as well as anything high in sugar, which can increase the risk of infection.
4. Rinse Frequently
Rinse your mouth with alcohol-free mouthwash or salt water every few hours after a dental procedure to help keep your mouth clean and reduce bacteria and discomfort. It’s common to have bad breath for a few hours after getting a filling, but rinsing can help reduce that side effect.
5. Take Anti-Inflammatory Medication
Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can help reduce swelling and soreness after a dental procedure. In most cases, the discomfort only lasts for a day or two after the dental filling, but some medication can help take the edge off.
6. Avoid Tobacco
Smoking or using tobacco after a dental filling increases the risk of infection. Avoid using any tobacco products for at least 12 hours after getting a filling to give the site time to heal and prevent a potentially serious complication.
Get Filling Aftercare Instructions From Our Experienced Team
If you suspect you need a filling or you’re having trouble with an existing dental filling, contact our team at Smile Perfection in Tucson, AZ, by calling (520) 293-2166 or request an appointment online. Our accomplished general dentistry team offers a wide range of care and procedures to support your overall dental health, including all types of fillings, from amalgam and silver to gold tooth fillings. We’ll make sure you have filling aftercare instructions and advice to reduce the risk of complications and ensure your tooth heals as quickly as possible.
