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Posted on 9/15/2019 by Bryan Neu |
A filling is a routine dental procedure, but to ensure the success of the filling, you'll need to follow some aftercare steps. Use these guidelines in the first 24 hours after you get your new dental filling. Avoid Chewing on the Numb Side of Your MouthAfter your filling, your mouth will feel numb for up to three hours. Until you have feeling back in your mouth, don't chew on the numb side. If you do, you could be at risk of biting your lip or inner cheek. Once the anesthetic wears off, you can chew again like normal. Check Your BiteAfter the anesthetic has worn off, check your bite. If you feel like the tooth with the filling now touches first when you bit down, there could be an imbalance that needs to be corrected. Make Good Food Choices This is especially true if you have a silver filling. In this case, you won't want to chew on hard foods with the newly filled tooth for the first 24 hours. If you have fillings in both sides of your mouth, follow a soft diet for the first day. You won't have the same restrictions with white fillings and can start chewing right away. Take an Over-the-Counter Pain KillersIf you experience any pain or discomfort after your tooth is filled, feel free to take an over-the-counter painkiller. Pain is most common in the event of a deep filling that extends close to the nerve, but ibuprofen or Tylenol can help to relieve it. Don't Forget Your Oral Hygiene RoutineMake sure you keep up with brushing and flossing, even during the first 24 hours after your filling. You don't want to get another cavity! Do you suspect that you have a cavity that needs treatment? If so, call our office today for an appointment. |
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