If you’ve got a cavity, having a dental filling placed by your dentist is a necessary procedure. Our Bolton dentists offer some advice about what you should and should not do after a filling.
Do be careful about eating after a dental filling.
You might want to be cautious about what you eat right after the filling procedure depending on the type of filling that was used. You can eat and drink right away after the procedure because composite white fillings instantly harden when exposed to the blue light your dentist uses.
Some options for good foods to eat following a tooth filling include soup, scrambled eggs and crackers. Look for food that requires minimal chewing.
On the other hand, if there is pain and swelling, wait until it decreases before eating.
Metal dental fillings take a bit of time to harden, so most dentists will recommend waiting at least 24 hours after receiving the dental filling to eat any solid foods.
To avoid biting your lips, cheek, or tongue, you will likely want to wait until the local anesthetic wears off before attempting to eat. Ask your dentist for advice about when is the best time to eat after your filling.
Don't eat sticky, hard or chewy foods for up to two weeks.
Following a dental filling, you might want to avoid foods and beverages that are hot or cold for a few days. For up to two weeks, foods that are sticky, hard, or chewy should also be avoided. Anything that will make you take big bites and chew for a long time, like meat, is probably off-limits.
You’ll also want to avoid highly acidic foods to prevent infection.
Do take over-the-counter painkillers if you notice pain, discomfort or tooth sensitivity after a filling.
Following the filling, you might experience some minor to moderate discomfort and pain. In most cases, pain and swelling should subside within 12 hours, and you should be able to eat whatever you want without experiencing tooth sensitivity or irritation nearby.
Take over-the-counter painkillers with ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate any physical pain or discomfort after a dental filling.
In the event, pain, sensitivity or discomfort does not disappear after 24 hours, contact your dentist to schedule an appointment to check on your filling, to ensure that infection is not developing.
Don't hesitate to brush your teeth or floss after a filling.
Did you know that you can brush your teeth and floss right away after getting a dental filling? You ought to be able to maintain the cleanliness of the area as usual as long as you gently brush and carefully floss around the tooth.
Do contact your dentist if you experience a persistent toothache
Did you know that you can brush your teeth and floss right away after getting a dental filling? You ought to be able to maintain the cleanliness of the area as usual as long as you gently brush and carefully floss around the tooth.