Dental fillings are beneficial for those who want to address tooth decay and the accompanying symptoms that result from cavities and other dental issues. Be aware of foods to avoid after a dental filling to ensure success. Fillings restore the tooth after decay to ensure functional benefits, like normal chewing and improved tooth aesthetics. If you need to schedule a filling appointment in Raleigh, NC, it’s important that you find a dentist who specializes in this dental service so you can expect the best experience from start to finish.
Foods to Avoid After Getting Dental Fillings in Raleigh, NC?
Sticky Foods
Even though your dentist will use specialized techniques to ensure that your filling adheres to the affected tooth and the materials set, you’ll need to avoid eating sticky foods as they can cause the new filling to come out of the tooth. This includes but is not limited to taffy, caramels, gummies, and any other sticky foods that pull on the tooth while chewing.
Most sticky foods don’t support oral health, so if you make it a habit to avoid these and eat healthy options like raw fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, or leafy greens, you won’t have to worry about these foods sticking to your filling, pulling it out, and requiring an additional appointment to have it repaired.
Hard Foods
It’s also important that you temporarily avoid eating hard foods after getting a dental filling. Hard foods like ice cubes, most nuts, and hard candies put extra pressure on the tooth and can cause the fillings to fall out. Instead of eating hard foods, focus on eating softer foods or liquid meals, like yogurts, protein shakes, avocados, eggs, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, soup, and soft fruits.
Sugary Foods
You may experience some tooth sensitivity after your dental filling appointment, which is normal. For that reason, it’s important that you avoid foods and drinks high in sugar as they can increase the risk of sensitivity and feed bad bacteria in the mouth, which will increase the likelihood of further tooth decay.
Though sugary foods are everywhere, you can find natural alternatives and use natural sweeteners like Stevia, monk fruit, maple syrup, and small amounts of honey instead of highly refined and processed options.
Extremely Hot or Cold Foods
Extremely hot and cold foods and beverages should also be avoided after getting a filling. These foods and beverages can increase tooth sensitivity, especially after a filling appointment.
Once the recommended amount of time has elapsed after your treatment, you can resume drinking hot and cold beverages without worrying about experiencing sensitivity and discomfort. Instead of consuming hot and cold foods and beverages, choose room temperature or lukewarm items to prevent any discomfort.
Whether you’re currently suffering from tooth decay or want to begin a dental treatment plan to prevent it and ensure optimal oral health, we can help. We specialize in a variety of dental treatments that are both preventative and prescriptive. We can give you more information about our office, our services, and our dentist. Contact us today at the office of Rebecca E. Reeves DMD, PA, to schedule your next appointment.