Are There Any Eating Restrictions After Getting a Filling?

It's a question we've all asked ourselves after leaving the dentist's office: "What can I eat now?" Whether you've just had a filling, a root canal, or any other dental procedure, it's crucial to know what foods and drinks to avoid to ensure a smooth recovery. At Dentistry of Bucks County, Dr. Jeffrey Brenner and his team are committed to providing you with the necessary information to ensure your post-procedure care is as seamless as possible.

Understanding Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a common procedure used to treat cavities or tooth decay. During the procedure, the dentist will remove the decayed tooth material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cleaned out cavity with a filling material. This process helps to prevent further decay by closing off any spaces where bacteria can enter.

• Composite fillings, made from a mixture of plastic and glass, are tooth-colored and blend in with your natural teeth.
• Amalgam fillings are a more durable option, made from a mixture of metals including silver, tin, and mercury.
• Gold fillings and porcelain fillings are more expensive options but can last longer than other types.

Post-Filling Eating Guidelines

After getting a filling, your mouth will likely be numb from local anesthesia. This numbness can make it difficult to feel the temperature of foods and liquids, potentially leading to burns or injuries. Therefore, it's recommended to avoid hot foods and drinks until the numbness has completely worn off.

• Stick to soft foods: Foods like yogurt, pudding, and applesauce are great options.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods: These can dislodge a new filling, especially in the first few hours after your procedure.
• Be cautious with temperature: As mentioned, your sensitivity to hot and cold may be impaired due to the anesthesia.

How to Care for Your Fillings

Once your fillings are in place, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene to ensure their longevity. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups are crucial. 

• Use a toothpaste containing fluoride: This will help to prevent further decay.
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks: These can erode your fillings over time.
• Don't chew on hard objects: This includes ice, hard candy, and other items that could damage your fillings.

When to Contact Your Dentist

If you experience any issues after getting a filling, such as pain when you bite down, sensitivity to hot or cold, or a crack or chip in the filling, you should contact your dentist immediately. These could be signs of a more serious issue that needs to be addressed.

• Pain when biting: This could indicate that the filling is interfering with your bite.
• Sensitivity: While some sensitivity is normal, if it persists for more than a few days, it's worth contacting your dentist.
• Cracks or chips: If you notice any damage to your filling, it's important to get it fixed to prevent further decay.

Trust Your Dental Care to Dentistry of Bucks County in Newtown, PA

At Dentistry of Bucks County, we understand that dental procedures can be daunting. That's why Dr. Jeffrey Brenner and his team are committed to providing you with the highest level of care, both during your procedure and in the days following. If you have any questions or concerns about your fillings, or if you're due for a check-up, don't hesitate to reach out to us at (215) 860-9000 to schedule an appointment. We're here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.