Proper Care After Tooth Filling Will Make All the Difference

Many of us remember the time when dental fillings were made of metal. Even today, people in Winfield, Illinois, and worldwide have silver or other metal fillings (amalgam fillings) in their mouths.

However, modern advances in dentistry have given us more options for fillings, and there are some excellent benefits to getting non-amalgam fillings, which are sometimes known as white fillings.

What are non-amalgam fillings, and how do you care for them once they’re in place? Let’s dive in and learn more about this amazing way to make your smile more beautiful and protect your natural teeth.

What Are Non-Amalgam Fillings? (White Fillings)

We all have bacteria in our mouths. Cavities and tooth decay are caused by these bacteria, meaning that literally, anyone can get a cavity, regardless of how diligently they work with their oral care.

Thanks to dental advances of the last couple of decades, you can now have dental work done without advertising the fact that you’ve had some cavities filled. With composite fillings, you have fillings that are the same color as your natural teeth. This means that no one will see a mouth full of metal when you smile or laugh.

Since the 1800s, tooth decay and cavities have been repaired using metal combinations that include silver, mercury, and even gold. These days, you can have your cavities repaired with BPA-safe composite resin that is blended, colored, and shaded to match your teeth. The resin is made with powdered glass, giving it a natural sheen that looks like your tooth enamel.

Benefits of Composite Cavity Fillings

Below, we outline just some of the benefits of composite cavity fillings.

• Economical: White fillings cost less than onlays, porcelain inlays, or crowns.
• Single-visit procedure
• Durable
• Versatile
• Conservative
• Strong enough to provide support for your natural tooth structure

Care After Tooth Filling 

It’s easy to take good care of your composite fillings. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a clean bill of dental health.

• Brush your teeth twice daily.
• Floss once daily.
• Avoid foods and beverages known for staining your teeth, including coffee, tomato products, wine, or tea.
• Don’t use tobacco, which also stains your teeth.
• Keep sugar consumption to a minimum. This will help you to decrease your risk of tooth decay.
• Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush.
• Opt for non-abrasive toothpaste that won’t scrape off your tooth enamel.
• Ask your dentist about a fluoride gel that can help to reinforce your dental enamel.
• Don’t grind your teeth. If you grind your teeth in your sleep, ask your dentist about a mouthguard for bruxism.

Composite Cavity Filling in Winfield, Illinois

Do you need fillings? If you’re ready to take your dental care to the next level, get in touch with Dr. Evelyn Maggos and the team at Park Dental Care in Winfield, Illinois. You can reach us at 630-556-8880 or request an appointment online today.