If you have been experiencing toothache due to a cavity, your dentist will clean out the decay and use a dental filling to prevent further tooth damage. Dental fillings aid in restoring the tooth’s normal function and appearance.
But there are different dental filling materials available. You can choose fillings made from porcelain, metals like silver amalgam, or composite resin. Today, the most commonly used fillings are composite tooth fillings.
In this article, you’ll learn about composite tooth fillings and some amazing tips to take care of your composite tooth fillings.
What are Composite Tooth Fillings?
Composite fillings, a.k.a. tooth-coloured fillings, are made by adding ceramic particles such as powdered glass quartz or silica to a resin base. The best thing about composite tooth fillings is that they can be matched to the natural colour of your tooth, making them perfect for your front teeth.
After removing the decay, your tooth will be prepared to bond the filling properly. Your dentist will then use the composite resin in layers and use ultraviolet light to set the layers.
Besides their natural appearance, composite fillings can withstand moderate pressure from chewing and provide good durability. However, these fillings are not the best for areas that sustain heavy use, like molars.
5 Ways to Take Care of Composite Tooth Filling
Composite tooth fillings can last between 5 to 7 years. However, you can make them last longer with proper maintenance and care. Here are the five top tips for caring for your composite tooth filling:
- Regular Brushing and Flossing
Take a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth after getting a composite tooth filling. Since the composite resin hardens quickly, you will be able to eat and drink a few hours after you leave the dental office. But remember that the treated tooth is still prone to bacterial infection.
Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. You must ensure that you brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly to keep your mouth and teeth healthy.
- Avoid Hard Foods and Colored Beverages
If you have just got a composite tooth filling, it’s best not to consume any food immediately. Plus! You also have to be aware of what you eat and drink. Biting hard and sticky foods like nuts and candies puts too much pressure on the teeth, damaging the filling. Also, avoid beverages like coffee, tea, wine, etc., as they can stain the tooth-coloured material.
- Use an Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
While mouthwash is good for oral health, be sure to use an alcohol-free mouthwash after getting a composite tooth filling. The reason is that a mouthwash that contains alcohol can stain your tooth-coloured fillings and affect their durability.
- Avoid Grinding and Clenching Your Teeth
Habits like grinding, nail-biting, and clenching your teeth can also damage your composite tooth fillings. Go for a mouth guard if you grind your teeth when you sleep or engage in strenuous activity. It’ll help protect your teeth and prolong the lifespan of the composite tooth filling as well.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Along with taking care of your composite tooth fillings at home, you should also visit your dentist regularly for dental checkups. As your dentist will monitor your oral health and the condition of your dental filling, they could recommend treatments accordingly. It will also make your composite tooth fillings last longer.
Composite Tooth Fillings in Engadine, NSW, Australia
If you’re searching for the finest dental restoration services in Engadine, NSW, Australia, then All About Dental is perfect. We have a very professional & experienced team of dentists in Engadine who can perform dental restorations using composite resin.
Contact us today and book your appointment.