919-479-5800
3823 Guess Road, Suite PRecommendations for Homecare Following Cosmetic Composite Restorations
We have placed tooth-colored restorations in your teeth. The resin material used is a plastic with small filler particles of glass-like material — some of the finest and most up-to-date materials available today. These restorations will serve you well for several years. However, you should be aware of the following:
Chewing: Unlike amalgam fillings, you may chew with your new composite fillings as soon as the anesthetic completely wears off, since they are fully hardened when you leave Willowdaile Cosmetic and Family! Enjoy them!
As with natural teeth, avoid chewing excessively hard foods (or objects) on the restored teeth (hard candy, ice, raw carrots, etc.) as extreme force can cause the resin material to break off – just as a natural tooth can be fractured. In the event that a break occurs, replacement of a restoration is not difficult, but a crown may be necessary.
Your anesthetic may last several hours; please be careful not to bite your lips, cheeks or tongue while they are numb. (Also, please keep an eye on these same issues for your child if they were anesthetized for their fillings.)
Your bite will feel different for approximately one week. Your tongue will be sensitive to any differences in the shape of the tooth. However, this too should pass after about a week and your mouth will accommodate the changes. If your bite or the shape of the tooth is such that you cannot accommodate it after a week, please contact us at 919-479-5800. During your call, we can make an appointment with our dentists to adjust your filling.
Sensitivity: It is normal for your teeth to be a bit sensitive to heat, cold and pressure. That is because we have removed some of the tooth structure and placed new materials on your teeth. In general, the deeper the cavity was in your tooth, the more sensitivity you will experience. Sensitivity to cold is normal and may last for several months. Some sensitivity to warm or hot temperatures is experienced by some people. If sensitivity to heat, cold or pressure increases, be sure to call our office.
Your gum tissue may become irritated during the procedure and may be sore for a few days. Swishing a few times a day with a warm saltwater rinse will help relieve the pain and swelling. Mix one teaspoon of salt with a single cup of warm water, gently rinse and swish, and then spit out the saltwater gently. Mild, over-the-counter pain medication should ease your discomfort during the adjustment period.
Recalls: Visit us at regular three-, four- or six-month examination periods. Dr. Simran Kaur or Dr. Matthew Garcia will notify you when will be best to visit our practice again. Problems that develop around the restorations can often be detected early and repaired easily. Waiting longer may require redoing the entire restoration or may dictate additional treatment, such as a root canal or a crown.
Preventive Procedures: Tobacco products, whether smoked or chewed, will create yellow or brown stains on your new restoration. Dark liquids like cola, red wine, juices, tea or even berries can also cause discoloration. We also recommend avoiding soda and foods high in acidity, which can cause de-bonding. If you do have acidic foods or soda, using a straw or rinsing with water can help avoid this.
Daily plaque removal is critical for the long-term success of your new restoration, so brush and floss daily and see us on a regular basis for professional cleanings. We will use the appropriate cleaning abrasives and techniques for your specific cosmetic work.
We want your restoration to last a very long time! To extend the longevity of your restorations and to prevent future dental decay or supporting tissue breakdown, please brush and floss after eating and before bedtime. In addition, swish with a fluoride mouthwash vigorously for at least 30 seconds each day. (Fluoride mouthwashes, such as ACT®, can be purchased over the counter.)
If you participate in sports, ask us about creating a custom mouth guard to protect your new smile.
You can give us a call at 919-479-5800 to get answers for any other questions or concerns you have or to make an appointment for a dental restoration in Durham, North Carolina!
