Fillings have been an important part of dental care for many years. It’s one of the most treatments we use to repair teeth damaged by cavities or injury. At Harvey and Nichols Family Dentistry, we use composite fillings. It’s less damaging to your overall health since they are amalgam-free. Plus, it requires less removable of your tooth structure.

After you get your filling, you want to protect it. We know the last thing you want is for it to pop out or for your tooth to get damaged again. Today, we’re sharing tips on how to protect your tooth filling.

  1. Brush and floss regularly.

Good oral hygiene is one of the best ways to protect your filling. If harmful bacteria or food particles linger in your mouth, it increases your risk of cavities. So, brush twice daily and floss at least once. Make sure you brush all sides of your teeth and floss gently into your gumline. 

In addition, make sure you choose toothpaste made of fluoride. It’s a helpful ingredient that strengthens your tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acids. You may also want to pair that with a fluoride rinse to use during the day.

  1. Visit us for regular checkups.

Biannual dental checkups are an important part of keeping your mouth healthy. We’ll thoroughly clean your teeth, reaching all those places you miss at home. Then, we’ll follow up with a complete exam of your mouth. We can spot signs of problems in the early stages, so they’re easier to treat.

We generally recommend you come for a checkup every six months. However, every patient is different. Your dentist will advise you on how often you should come in based on your oral health history and any existing concerns.

  1. Limit foods and beverages that stain your teeth.

Your new composite filling can stain just as easily as your natural teeth. If you want to keep it naturally white as much as possible, be careful how you enjoy teeth-staining foods and beverages. For example, sip any beverages that stain, such as coffee, through a straw. Berries can stain your teeth too, so add them to yogurt or a smoothie to cut down on them. 

  1. Avoid using your teeth as tools.

Using your teeth to open a package, open a bottle, or chew into an object that’s not food can cause serious dental damage. You can crack, chip, or dislodge a tooth. Or in terms of harming your filling, it could come loose. So, grab a pair of scissors instead. 

  1. Wear a mouthguard.

A mouthguard is a wonderful way of protecting your filling from damage. Fortunately, we offer several customized ones based on your needs. For example, you’ll want to wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports. It’s designed to protect your lips, cheeks, tongue, and teeth from injury on the field.

We also have mouthguards for people who grind their teeth. Grinding or clenching your teeth can increase the wear and tear on your enamel. Plus, you can dislodge a filling that way. So, bring up your concerns about any teeth-grinding habits at your next appointment.

For more personalized tips on how to protect your tooth filling, call Harvey and Nichols Family Dentistry today at 270-200-6225 for an appointment in Elizabethtown, KY. You can also schedule online.