Temporary Tooth Filling

If your dentist determines that a temporary filling is the appropriate procedure for you, they will begin the filling procedure process by first numbing the area around the cavity. Once the anesthetic has properly numbed the area, your dentist will begin removing the decay from the tooth. Once this is completed, your dentist will place the temporary filling to prevent bacteria from forming.

There are several different reasons why your dentist may suggest placing a temporary tooth filling, the most common of which is following a root canal or if you are waiting for a specialty filling or crown to be made in addressing a problem tooth. If your dentist has recommended having a temporary tooth filling placed, there are several things you should know about proper care and maintenance as you wait for a permanent solution to fix your issue.

Caring for a Temporary Tooth Filling

One of the best things you can do to take care of your temporary filling and make sure it does not fall out is to be mindful of your chewing habits. It is a good idea to chew on the other side of your mouth as much as possible. Because some temporary fillings can be in place for several weeks, it is not uncommon for patients to forget about its fragile nature and begin chewing on the affected side. Provided you are avoiding extremely sharp or hard foods and make a point of chewing gently, you will generally be alright, but it is best to avoid doing so as much as possible. It is also a good idea to stick to softer foods, such as soups, yogurt, ice cream, et. al. and avoid crunchier food items, such as toffee or nuts.

It is also a good idea to purchase an extra-soft bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth gently and with caution. Flossing can pose some challenges, but as long as you avoid pulling up while flossing, and instead pull the floss out to the side, you should have no risk of pulling the temporary filling out.

Beyond practicing these modified oral health care practices, it will not be necessary to make dramatic changes to your eating habits following the placement of your filling; however, it is important to consider why you need to have this filling in the first place. The primary reason individuals need to have a temporary tooth filling placed is because they have not been practicing proper oral hygiene at home.

In order to preserve the strength and overall health of the filling, be sure to continue practicing good oral hygiene practices. Continue brushing and flossing your teeth at a minimum of twice daily and continue scheduling dental checkups as prescribed by your dental professional. Scheduling these checkups is incredibly important, because doing so allows your dentist to continue monitoring the overall health and wellbeing of your teeth and address potential warning areas early before they develop into something moreserious. If you take good care of your dental fillings, your dental fillings will continue to take good care of you.

Contact Renaissance Dental Center about your consultation today, let us help you decide what tooth filling is right for you.

Want to learn more about fillings? Read : More About Pain After Tooth Fillings