Dental fillings are a reliable way to treat cavities, but they’re not permanent. Without proper care, they can loosen, crack, or lead to new decay. At Naranja Pediatric Dentistry, we want to help you protect that investment in your child’s health with a few simple at-home tips.
Post-Op Instructions for Dental Fillings
- Skip sticky and hard foods. Fillings can loosen or crack if exposed to chewy candy, gum, caramel, taffy, ice, or hard snacks like popcorn kernels or jawbreakers. It’s best to avoid these altogether to protect the treated tooth.
- Encourage gentle chewing. If your child received a filling on one side of the mouth, try to have them chew on the opposite side for the first day to minimize pressure on the area.
- Watch for lingering numbness. After the procedure, the mouth may stay numb for a few hours if local anesthesia was used. Keep an eye out for accidental cheek, lip, or tongue biting. Soft foods and supervision can help prevent injury while the sensation returns.
- Maintain strong brushing and flossing habits. Cavities can form around an existing filling or in a different area of the same tooth. Helping your child brush twice a day and floss afterward makes a big difference in keeping the area clean and cavity-free.
- Limit frequent snacking. Continuous exposure to food throughout the day can increase the risk of cavities. Encourage regular meals and limit grazing throughout the day to protect their teeth between brushings.
- Check in regularly. Routine dental visits allow us to monitor the condition of your child's filling and catch any signs of wear or new decay early.
