If you’ve recently gotten dental fillings, a minor restorative dental procedure used to remedy cavities, then there are a few things you can do to ensure a quick recovery. Carefully adhere to the following instructions to ensure your teeth, tongue, and gums remain in good condition following your procedure.
After an anesthetic has been used, you will likely experience numbness of the lips and tongue for several hours after your procedure. We recommend that you avoid chewing or consuming hot beverages until the numbness has subsided. Otherwise, you may be at risk of inadvertently biting your tongue or burning your mouth. It should be noted that children are particularly prone to injury after anesthetics, as they tend to chew on the inside of their cheeks, lips, and tongue. Therefore, they should be observed in the first few hours after their procedure. You should expect the numbness from your anesthetic to wear off around 1-3 hours after your procedure.
Following your procedure, it is completely normal to experience sensitivity to heat, cold, and pressure temporarily. You may also experience soreness or tenderness at the site of the injection used to administer your anesthetic, as well as some irritation of the gums. Over-the-counter pain medications such as Ibuprofen, Tylenol, or aspirin can be taken as directed (one to two tablets every 4-6 hours as needed) until the pain subsides. Typically, dental sensitivity to extreme temperatures and pressure subsides after a few days. However, if this sensitivity does not subside after a couple of days or if it worsens, be certain to contact Crown Point Smiles.
While you don’t necessarily need to change your diet after receiving fillings, we do recommend that you avoid hot foods and beverages while you’re still experiencing numbness from the anesthetic. We also suggest that you avoid chewing entirely during these first few hours. Otherwise, you may be at risk for unknowingly burning or harming your cheeks, tongue, and lips. If you get silver fillings, we recommend that you do not chew crunchy or hard foods or chew directly on your new restoration for the first 24 hours. Composite fillings, on the other hand, can be chewed on immediately after the anesthetic has worn off.
In some cases, you may experience an uneven bite after the anesthetic has worn away. If you feel that one side of your mouth is hitting first when you bite down, be certain to call Crown Point Smiles right away. An uneven bite could cause further discomfort or damage down the road and should be addressed immediately.
Do you have any questions about your recovery after receiving dental fillings? We’re happy to help! Contact Crown Point Smiles today to speak with someone in our office or schedule a follow-up appointment.
If you experience tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, notice any visible holes or dark spots on your teeth, or feel pain when biting down, these could be signs of a cavity that requires a dental filling. The best way to know for sure is to visit us for a thorough oral exam and diagnostic imaging.
The procedure for placing a dental filling is generally very comfortable. We use local anesthesia to numb the area before treatment, so you should feel minimal to no pain during the process. Afterward, some sensitivity is normal but typically subsides within a few days.
We offer several options including tooth-colored composite resin, durable amalgam, glass ionomer that releases fluoride, and ceramic fillings. During your visit, we’ll discuss which material best suits your tooth’s needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget.
The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used, your oral hygiene, and habits such as grinding or chewing hard objects. Composite fillings can last around 5 to 7 years, while amalgam and ceramic fillings often last longer. Regular dental checkups help us monitor your fillings’ condition.
Yes, absolutely. We prioritize patient comfort and have techniques to help manage anxiety, including gentle communication, sedation options, and creating a relaxing environment. Let us know your concerns so we can make your visit as comfortable as possible.
Composite and ceramic fillings are designed to blend naturally with your tooth’s color, so they look very natural. Amalgam fillings are metallic and more noticeable but very durable. We carefully shape fillings to restore your tooth’s natural contours and ensure your bite feels comfortable.
If your bite feels off or the filling feels rough, contact us right away. We can easily adjust and polish the filling to ensure your comfort and proper function. Don’t wait, as an uneven bite can lead to other dental problems.
While fillings repair current decay, practicing good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential to prevent new cavities. Some filling materials, like glass ionomer, release fluoride that helps protect the tooth, but no filling can replace daily care.
Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Avoid chewing on hard items that could damage your filling. Regular dental cleanings and exams help keep your fillings and overall oral health in good shape.
Fillings are a long-lasting treatment, but over time they may wear down or develop gaps that allow decay to return. Regular dental checkups allow us to monitor your fillings and replace them as needed to keep your teeth healthy.
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1192 North Main Street, Crown Point, IN 46307