Dental Articles - Toronto

Dental fillings are a common and necessary procedure for addressing cavities and restoring the health of your teeth. At 2000 Yonge Dental, our experienced Toronto dentists not only ensure a high-quality filling procedure but also provide invaluable advice to help you navigate the recovery process smoothly. Understanding the do’s and don’ts after getting a dental filling can significantly impact your healing process and the longevity of your filling. Here’s what you need to know.

DO BE CAUTIOUS ABOUT EATING AFTER A DENTAL FILLING

The type of filling material used in your procedure dictates when and what you can eat post-treatment. Composite white fillings, popular for their aesthetic appeal, harden instantly under a special blue light, allowing you to eat and drink immediately after the procedure. Soft foods that require minimal chewing, such as soup, scrambled eggs, and crackers, are ideal choices.

However, if you opt for metal dental fillings, patience is key. These fillings take some time to harden fully, and it’s advisable to wait at least 24 hours before consuming solid foods. Regardless of the filling type, waiting until the local anesthetic completely wears off is essential to avoid inadvertently biting your lips, cheek, or tongue.

Don’t Eat Sticky, Hard, or Chewy Foods for Up to Two Weeks

To ensure the integrity of your new filling, it’s prudent to avoid foods that are sticky, hard, or chewy for the first two weeks. Extreme temperatures in foods and beverages should also be avoided to prevent discomfort. Highly acidic foods are another no-go as they can increase the risk of infection around the new filling.

Do Take Over-the-Counter Painkillers for Discomfort

It’s normal to experience mild to moderate discomfort after a filling. Over-the-counter pain relievers containing ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate this discomfort. If pain, sensitivity, or discomfort persists beyond 24 hours, it’s crucial to contact your dentist. This could indicate that the filling needs adjustment or, in rare cases, that an infection is developing.

Don’t Hesitate to Brush and Floss

Maintaining oral hygiene post-filling is not only possible but encouraged. You can brush and floss as usual, albeit gently, especially around the filled tooth. This helps in keeping the area clean and aids in the healing process.

Do Contact Your Dentist for Persistent Toothache

While some discomfort is normal, a continuous, sharp, or throbbing toothache could signal that the decay has reached deeper into the tooth, possibly affecting the pulp. In such cases, a root canal may be necessary. Promptly contacting your dentist is crucial for addressing any underlying issues and preventing further complications.

Why 2000 Yonge Dental?

At 2000 Yonge Dental, our commitment to your oral health extends beyond the dental chair. We’re dedicated to providing you with not only exceptional dental care but also the guidance needed to navigate your recovery effectively. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that your experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Spring Into Action With a Healthy Smile

This spring, take the step towards maintaining your oral health by not overlooking the significance of dental check-ups and the care required after procedures like dental fillings. With the right care and attention, you can ensure the longevity of your fillings and the overall health of your mouth.

If you’ve recently had a dental filling or are in need of one, contact us at 2000 Yonge Dental today. Our team is ready to provide you with the highest quality of dental care and advice tailored to your specific needs. Plus, take advantage of our special promotion: receive a free professional teeth whitening kit with every comprehensive teeth cleaning, ensuring your smile is not only healthy but brilliantly white this spring. Let us help you achieve and maintain the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve.

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dental fillings  dental fillings guide