It’s no secret that good oral health leads to a happy and healthy life. One way to establish a healthier smile is with the help of dental fillings. These tiny dental restorations play a crucial role in preserving the structure and integrity of your teeth, helping you enjoy your natural smile for years to come.
Whether you’re living with minor dental damage or you suspect a developing cavity, tooth fillings can help. Contact Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist today to see if this treatment is right for you. Dial our Austin, TX, dental office at (512) 346-4690 to learn more.
Just like any dental procedure, fillings require proper care to ensure their longevity. In today’s blog, Dr. Ragsdale gives you five tips and tricks to help you make your dental fillings last longer.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene practices lay the foundation of dental health. This means flossing and brushing after meals (or at least twice a day) with fluoride toothpaste.
Proper brushing and flossing help remove food debris and plaque that can accumulate around the filling, preventing decay and potential damage to the restoration.
Additionally, using an antimicrobial mouthwash can further reduce bacteria in your mouth, contributing to the longevity of your dental fillings.
Choose the Right Foods
Your diet plays a significant role in the health of your teeth and dental fillings. Avoid sticky, chewy, and sugary foods that can cling to your teeth and increase the risk of decay around the filling.
Instead, opt for a harmonious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products.
These foods not only support overall oral health but also promote saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and remineralize enamel. This means that proper nutrition can strengthen the tooth structure and protect the filling.
Avoid Bad Habits
Certain habits can compromise the integrity of your dental fillings and lead to premature wear or damage.
Avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, or fingernails. This behavior can put excessive pressure on the filling and cause it to crack or dislodge.
Similarly, refrain from using your teeth as tools to open bottles or packages. This habit can weaken the filling or even fracture the tooth.
By breaking these habits, you can extend the lifespan of your dental fillings and maintain optimal oral health.
Attend Regular Dental Checkups
Dr. Ragsdale can examine fillings during routine checkups and can detect signs of wear, decay, or damage early on.
Additionally, professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup that may compromise the integrity of the filling.
By staying proactive with your dental care, you can prevent problems and prolong the lifespan of your dental fillings.
Protect Against Teeth Grinding
If you clench or grind your teeth (especially at night), consider wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth and fillings from damage.
Additionally, stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises or therapy can help alleviate bruxism (the fancy term for teeth grinding) and reduce its impact on your oral health.
Tooth-Colored Fillings in Austin, TX
While most fillings last for around five to ten years, proper care and maintenance are essential for making your dental fillings last longer. Want to learn more about this treatment with Dr. Ragsdale? Contact Austin Laser Dentist online or call (512) 346-4690 for more information.
