Dentists use tooth fillings to treat cavities. A filling is a cheap method of treatment for cavitated teeth. When properly cared for, certain fillings can survive for up to 10 years or even more. Once you receive your filling, it is imperative you care for it so that it serves you for the intended period before replacing it.
Getting a filling brings relief from things like cavities, sensitivity, and toothache. Here is what you should do once you have had your filling fitted.
Wait Until the Anesthetic Goes Away
During the time you are getting a filling, a dentist administers an anesthetic to prevent you from feeling pain and discomfort. The medication may remain active for some hours after the procedure. With the anesthetic still active, your ability to feel cold and hot things in the mouth is low. As such, it might contribute to injuries if you try eating before the anesthetic wears off.
Avoid Pressure on the Tooth
Refrain from chewing with the repaired tooth because it could put unwanted stress on the filling that has not fully cured or hardened. If this happens, you could deform or dislodge it, which would mean premature failure of your restoration.
Ensure Good Oral Hygiene
No special care is needed for fillings. You just need to brush and floss normally. Make sure you brush before going to bed since bacteria do more damage while you are asleep. There is reduced saliva production when sleeping and you know saliva is a natural cleanser of the mouth. It sweeps away bacteria, acids, and leftovers from teeth surfaces.
Avoid Sucking on Teeth
If you habitually suck on your teeth, it is not good for tooth fillings. It could result in the fillings getting loose or falling out. You may have to get another filling if it gets loose or falls out. You could also risk the cavity getting larger. Visit us if you have cavitated teeth to get dental fillings or other restorations like onlays and inlays or even crowns.
Dentists use tooth fillings to treat cavities. A filling is a cheap method of treatment for cavitated teeth. When properly cared for, certain fillings can survive for up to 10 years or even more. Once you receive your filling, it is imperative you care for it so that it serves you for the intended period before replacing it.