After your dentist has put in a dental filling to fix a cavity, you’ll need to take a few essential steps to properly recover. You want to minimize discomfort, and, more importantly, ensure you don’t damage the filling. Below, you’ll find aftercare tips so you achieve the best outcome in the following days.

A Guide to Recovery After Dental Fillings

1. Avoid Hot & Cold Foods

Your mouth can be more sensitive following the procedure, so stay away from hot and cold foods for the first day. These sensations and can strike the tooth’s nerve and create sharp, immediate pain or mild discomfort. If it’s cold outside, chew with your mouth closed. Cold air can trigger unwanted responses, including irritation and achiness. If the pain becomes overwhelming or constant, contact a dentist.

2. Chew Safely

Composite fillings set as soon as they’re applied, so you can chew on that side of your mouth right away. However, you should still chew slowly and bite carefully, as the area will likely be sore. Avoid sticky foods, nuts, and ice, as they may dislodge the filling. Finally, skip sweets and hard candies, as they can cause bacteria to grow under or around the new filling. 

3. Return to Brushing & Flossing

To prevent additional decay, brush and floss on your regular schedule. Brush softly on and around the filling site. Your gums may be sensitive or irritated, so floss gingerly. A dentist-approved mouth rinse can be effective if you’re dealing with post-treatment discomfort.

Whether you need dental fillings or are just overdue for a trip to the dentist, contact Valley Family Dentistry, PLLC. Our Fulton County, NY, practice is led by Drs. William Hassan and Victoria Milward. We specialize in cosmetic dentistry procedures and also provide family and emergency dental services. Call (518) 661-6405 to schedule a teeth cleaning, and visit our website to learn more about this dental office.