In a time when dental problems have become quite common, white fillings have turned out to be an essential part of oral care. Now, more and more people choose them to achieve a seamless and healthier smile. However, for anyone still new to such treatments, figuring out when you can go back to normal eating will be an undeniable concern. The good thing is that getting white filling doesn’t require you to wait for too long before you get back to normal eating. All you have to do is follow a few simple tips along with your dentist’s guidelines, and you can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of white fillings after you get them.
What Are White Fillings?
Before we provide tips on when can you eat after a white filling, let’s first examine exactly what this treatment entails. White filling is designed to correct common dental deformities like broken, damaged, or chipped teeth quickly and efficiently. But how is it accomplished?
White fillings use a composite resin that matches the shade of your natural tooth to fill damaged areas quickly and successfully in one visit. You can resume eating immediately upon completion. White fillings are strong and often settle quickly. Nonetheless, certain precautions must be taken to maintain them for years.
When Can You Eat After A White Filling
The time required before eating after having white fillings depends on various factors, including the type and size of the filling, the size of the cavity being treated, as well as your dentist’s recommendations. Here is an overview of what to keep in mind after receiving these fillings:
Immediate Eating: Benefits of Quick Setting
One advantage of composite fillings is their fast setting time. Light used during the procedure hardens the material immediately and can allow immediate eating after treatment has taken place. Although there may still be certain precautions you need to follow for safety’s sake.
Wait Until Numbness Wears Off
Anesthesia will leave your mouth numb after treatment, so wait for it to wear off before eating again. Eating while your mouth remains numb can result in accidental bites to your tongue or cheek. Usually, this wait time lasts between one to three hours after your procedure. So be sure to give enough time for full sensation to return after this period has passed.
Stick With Soft FoodsÂ
White fillings are durable, and they are hardened immediately. Nonetheless, the first 24 hours following the procedure are vitally important. To protect the filling from shifting or dislodging altogether, it is advisable to avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods. Hard and crunchy foods could stress your fillings and leave them ineffective. Hence, it is wise to proceed with caution during this timeframe.
Avoid Temperature-Sensitive Foods
After having your teeth filled, it may cause temporary sensitivity to either hot or cold foods. To minimize discomfort, try sticking with room-temperature meals for the first day after your filling procedure. This will allow your mouth to adjust more easily and avoid potential sensitivity issues.
Recommended Foods to Eat After a White Filling
After getting a white filling, choose foods that won’t put unnecessary pressure on your restoration. Here are some suitable options:
- Mashed potatoes or soft vegetables
- Yogurt or pudding
- Smoothies (preferably not too cold)
- Scrambled eggs
- Lukewarm soup
- Applesauce
These foods are gentle on your new filling and allow your tooth to adjust without irritation.
Tips for Eating Safely After White Fillings
To keep your white filling intact and promote healing, follow these suggestions:
Chew Gently
For a few days after treatment, avoid chewing directly on the side of your mouth where the filling has been placed. It will be crucial in reducing the risk of damaging or dislodging it.
Cut Food Into Smaller Pieces
Eat your foods after cutting them into smaller pieces. It will ensure that you do not put any unnecessary pressure on your teeth and filling while chewing your food.
Avoid Sticky Foods
Sticky foods should be avoided to protect the integrity of the filling and avoid pulling at it, which could weaken its bond to your tooth.
Monitor Sensitivity
Sensitivity after white filling is common but if discomfort continues for more than several days after having your treatment, seek advice from your dentist immediately.
Follow Aftercare Instructions
Dentists offer specific aftercare instructions tailored to your unique situation, which are essential in ensuring proper healing and the long-term viability of any fillings. It’s vital to follow these directions closely for optimal healing results and longevity of any fillings or restorations.
How Gentle Teeth & Braces Can Help
At Gentle Teeth & Braces, we aim to guide every step of your dental journey with care and precision. Our team of skilled professionals is committed to making sure your white-filling procedure runs smoothly and successfully. We integrate cutting-edge techniques and high-grade materials into our white filling procedures that blend in seamlessly with the natural teeth while providing lasting strength. Furthermore, after your treatment, we’ll offer advice on how to protect it and maintain oral health for an incredible smile throughout its journey.
If you seek advice on long-term care of your teeth post-treatment or want to learn about your other options for dental health, we recommend you contact one of our experts today. You can contact our team andbook an appointment within minutes for immediate care.
Final Thoughts
White fillings offer a natural and long-term solution for restoring damaged teeth, with a fast setting time so you can resume eating soon after treatment. However, you have to make sure the filling remains secure and comfortable for at least 24 hours post-procedure. By following your dentist’s aftercare advice and practicing good oral hygiene, your white filling is sure to last and function effectively for years to come. Should any issues arise, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your dental experts at Gentle Teeth & Braces as soon as possible.
