Knowing how to take care of your tooth fillings will ensure that the fillings will last for a long time. As with regular oral hygiene, you still need to brush your teeth at least twice a day, use a fluoride toothpaste, regularly floss at least once a day, and use an antibacterial mouthwash.
A visit to the dentist at least every six months or as recommended by your dentist will make sure that your tooth filling is not cracked or damaged. A damaged tooth filling could allow saliva and food debris to seep into the filling, which may lead to tooth decay.
Here are further details on caring for your tooth fillings and overall oral hygiene.
- See your dentist if you notice cracking or pitting in a tooth or tooth filling.
- Visit the dentist if you are experiencing and tooth sensitivity. Although it is normal that teeth may become sensitive to too many sweets, or cold or hot drinks, excessive sensitivity is not normal. With or without tooth fillings, always see your dentist if you experience pain in the mouth or excessive sensitivity to heat or cold.
- Let your dentist know if there is misaligned biting after receiving a tooth filling. Misaligned biting or uncomfortable bite movements may indicate that the filling needs to be adjusted.
- Visit the dentist if you think you may have allergies from the components of the fillings.
- If you tooth filling is old, visit the dentist if the dental filling is deteriorating. The constant grinding, chewing and clenching can lead to the wear and tear, which may also lead to chipping and cracking of the filling.