Composite fillings are a dental restorative material made of plastic and glass filler. They are tooth-colored fillings used to repair damaged teeth or cavities. Most people prefer composite dental fillings due to their durability, flexibility, and low cost. However, one question often arises: Can you brush your teeth right after composite filling? Or should you wait for a while? Let’s find out.
Can You Brush Your Teeth After Composite Filling?
Getting a filling done does not mean you cannot brush your teeth. Obviously, you can brush your teeth because oral hygiene is very important. Otherwise, it can lead to other dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease. You should brush and floss properly after a composite filling but with gentle care.
When Can You Brush Your Teeth After Composite Filling?
Since the composite filling gets hard immediately, you still want to make it last longer. You must wait a few hours to avoid sensitivity and food getting stuck in your teeth with filling. However, composite filling is durable and does not remove if you eat anything after it. But you can feel some tooth sensitivity.
What to Do During Initial Hours After Composite Filling?
In the initial hours after getting your composite filling, refrain from brushing your teeth immediately. Let the filling sit for some time. Instead of brushing, you can use a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse your mouth gently. Wait a few hours before eating because it may disturb your filling.
Here are a few guidelines that you must follow:
Do Not Eat While the Mouth is Numb
Once the filling is done, wait for the numbing agent to wear off. When you start eating immediately after getting a composite filling, it can lead to accidental bites on your lips, underside of your cheeks, or tongue. This can cause damage to your soft tissues.
Be Careful About What You Eat
Composite filling is hard enough to withstand the pressure of chewing solid food. However, it is usually recommended to start with soft food that requires minimal chewing. You can have soups, broths, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and soft cheese. Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy food for up to two weeks. Do not drink very hot or cold beverages, as they increase tooth sensitivity.
What is the Right Way to Brush After Composite Filling?
We recommend not brushing for a few hours after composite filling. Instead, focus on mild rinsing with an alcohol-free mouthwash.
Avoid aggressive brushing when brushing your teeth after a few hours, as this may pull the filling out. A gentle circular motion of the toothbrush can ensure complete cleaning of the teeth’ surface without causing irritation.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to exert less pressure on the filled tooth. Another factor affecting the filling is using toothpaste. You should use a toothpaste specialized for sensitive teeth.
Final Thoughts
It is concluded that you should not brush your teeth immediately after a composite filling. Instead, wait a few hours and rinse your mouth only with an alcohol-free mouthwash. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently stroke it to prevent the filling from coming out of the tooth. For this and other dental restoration procedures, consult our dentist at Lake Elsinore. Call (951) 579-1010 to schedule your appointment.