Post Dental Fillings: Do’s and Don’ts
Dental fillings are part of restorative and cosmetic dentistry in Coppell, TX. These restorations come in different types— some are tooth-colored, others are not, but they all are used to restore or repair teeth. While filling cavities is their most common application, they are also used to fix broken or cracked teeth.
Composite resin fillings are made of particles that match the color of your teeth. Gold fillings are fairly durable but aren’t as natural-looking as composite or porcelain. They are best for small to mid-sized restorations in areas of the mouth that are not heavily chewed.
Traditional silver and gold fillings last more than 15 years, while composite resin fillings can last for about ten years. The cost of ceramics is higher than amalgams, but they are more likely to wear out after the fillings are in place. They may require additional visits to the dentist.
A mixture of different metals is used in amalgam fillings. These fillings are durable and less susceptible to moisture than composite resin, but they contain mercury. In addition, they don’t bond with the teeth as composite resin fillings do.
How Are Dental Fillings Fixed on the Teeth?
A dental filling is a restoration of a tooth damaged by decay or other dental problems. The procedure of getting dental fillings in Coppell, TX, will depend on the filling you choose. The dentist will clean the cavity, remove bacteria and debris, and prepare the tooth for the filling. Sometimes, a liner is put in the cavity to protect the nerve. Afterward, the filling material is secured on the tooth. This dental fillings procedure may take longer for fillings like porcelain or gold. These two types require at least two dental visits—one for taking the impressions and the last for fixing the fillings.
The dental fillings, especially the composite ones, need to be set, and it is important to watch what you eat after the procedure.
During these appointments, your dentist will detect any weakness or crack in the filling. This will prevent decay from spreading and reduce the need for expensive procedures. The dentist will also perform x-rays to assess the condition of your fillings.
Post Dental Fillings – Do’s and Don’ts
If you have dental fillings, there are several things to remember after the procedure. These include avoiding hot or cold beverages, sugary foods, and sticky and hard foods. While you should be able to eat soft or plain foods, avoiding hard and sticky foods is crucial.
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Avoiding sugary foods
It’s important to avoid eating sticky, gooey, or sweet-tasting foods after dental fillings because they damage the teeth and increase your risk of cavities. Additionally, they take longer to dissolve and can stay on your teeth for a longer period.
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Avoiding hot and cold drinks
After a dental filling, you should wait at least 24 hours before you eat solid foods. This includes hot and cold drinks and chewy and sticky foods.
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Avoiding hard foods
After dental fillings, you should avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. These can dislodge your filling, causing pain and discomfort. It’s also important to avoid very hot and cold foods. They can also cause infection.
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Avoiding sticky foods
It’s crucial to avoid eating sticky foods after dental fillings to protect them from the damage that can result from repeated chewing. Sticky foods tend to pull at the filling material and can cause it to fall out. The more fillings that fall out, the harder it will be to replace them. Sticky foods are also often sugary, contributing to the decay that causes cavities.
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Avoiding chewing
The first step after getting a dental filling is to avoid chewing on the affected area. Keeping the mouth as clean as possible will also help prevent cavities.
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Maintain proper hygiene
You should brush and floss your teeth and also use an antiseptic mouthwash. Avoid using abrasive or rough brushes since these will scratch the fillings.
Schedule an Appointment with our dentist in Coppell, TX
Visit Compassion Smiles Dentistry in Coppell for more information about dental fillings and other cosmetic dentistry near your procedures.