Getting a filling is a pretty common experience. Fillings keep cavities from getting worse and restore a tooth’s function.
To make sure your filling lasts, it’s important to take good care of it. This includes thinking about what you eat right after the procedure. So, what can you eat after a filling? What should you avoid?
This article will help you navigate the dos and don’ts of eating after getting a filling so you can ensure proper healing and avoid complications.
Types of dental fillings and waiting times
The type of filling you get will determine how long you’ll need to wait before eating. Here’s what you should know:
Composite fillings
Composite resin fillings harden fast, frequently under a UV light. Usually, you can eat within 2 or 3 hours after getting one of these fillings.
The upside of composite fillings is that they look very natural, blending right in with your other teeth. One possible downside is that they may not be quite as durable as amalgam fillings.
Amalgam fillings
Amalgam fillings need a longer waiting time. It’s usually recommended that you wait a full 24 hours before you start chewing on that side of your mouth.
Amalgam fillings are known for being super durable and long-lasting. They can last for 15 years or so.
What to Eat After a Filling: Gentle Options for Healing
Right after a filling, you’ll want to baby your mouth a little. This means opting for foods that don’t require a lot of chewing. Some good choices include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Soup or broth
- Soft cheeses
- Pasta
Also, be aware of temperature. Your teeth might be sensitive, so avoid anything too hot or too cold at first.
Here are some meal ideas to get you started:
- Breakfast: Oatmeal, yogurt, or a smoothie.
- Lunch: Soft pasta, soup, or mashed sweet potatoes.
- Dinner: Broth-based soup, soft fish, or mashed potatoes.
Foods to avoid after a filling
For the first few days, and maybe even the first week, you’ll want to be careful about what you eat. Certain foods can damage your new filling.
It’s best to avoid hard, crunchy, and chewy foods. These can put a lot of pressure on the filling and maybe even dislodge it. Think nuts, hard candies, ice, and tough meats.
Sticky foods are also a bad idea. They can stick to the filling and pull it out. So, skip the chewing gum, caramel, and taffy.
Finally, watch out for sugary foods. Sugar causes tooth decay and can hurt the long-term health of your filled tooth.
Tips for caring for your new filling
- Practice good oral hygiene. Gently brush and floss around the area to remove plaque and food.
- Rinse with warm salt water. This can help keep the area clean and speed up healing.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers. If you feel any sensitivity or pain, ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help.
- Call your dentist if you have bite problems or long-lasting pain. If your filling is too high, it can cause discomfort and require adjustments.
Putting It All Together
Always follow your dentist’s specific instructions after getting a filling. They may have advice tailored to the type of filling you received and your personal circumstances.
Regular dental checkups are also essential for maintaining your oral health and ensuring that your fillings last. Your dentist can spot any problems early on and help you keep your fillings in good shape for years to come.