Given that the filling is temporary, it requires special care to keep it in place. So let's talk about what a temporary dental filling is as well as why dentists use them. Then, we'll go into what you can eat until a permanent filling is placed. And of course, we'll go over how you can keep up with your daily oral care with the filling in mind.
A temporary filling is a non-permanent structure that's used to restore a damaged tooth. Since these fillings are temporary, they're not meant to last! So, how long does a temporary filling last? Temporary fillings may be needed for several weeks or more. Their role is to stay in place until you see your dentist again to have the temporary filling replaced with a permanent one.
Fillings are generally made up of various materials, like tooth-colored composite resins, porcelain, or dental amalgam. Temporary fillings are much softer and are made up of materials like zinc phosphate cement and glass ionomers.
Temporary dental fillings are used for several reasons. Here are a few:
Your dentist will give you specific instructions after your visit about when you can eat. But generally, it's recommended to wait until your anesthesia has worn off, so you don't bite your tongue. For some fillings, you may need to wait for 24 hrs before eating on the side of the mouth with the filling so that the filling stays in place.
Temporary fillings are sensitive. And because they are temporary, they can fall out if you don't take proper care to eat what's suitable for the filling.
Your dentist may tell you to avoid chewing with the side of your mouth that holds the temporary filling. Here are some other eating guidelines to help ease your comfort as well as ensure your filling stays intact:
Always check in with your dentist for other specific recommendations after your temporary filling is placed.
After you get a temporary filling, you may be wondering how to continue with your daily oral care. Don't worry! It's okay to continue to brush the filled tooth. And to be safe, use a soft or extra-soft bristled toothbrush and brush gently but thoroughly.
Flossing around the newly filled tooth may be tricky. If the filling reaches the edge of your tooth, be extra careful when you floss. Instead of pulling up when you remove the floss from between your teeth, you can pull it out the side to prevent the floss from snagging on the temporary filling and pulling it out.
If your filling falls out or feels like it's damaged, contact your dentist right away! Your dentist will be able to fix or replace it. It's essential to communicate with your dentist as soon as you can to avoid any complications.
Now that you know how to care for your temporary dental filling, it should be durable enough to last until your next visit to the dentist. Remember to wait to eat after the filling is placed and follow the dentist's instructions. You'll also want to stay away from sticky and hard foods and be extra mindful when chewing, brushing, and flossing. And if you have any issues with the filling, reach out to your dentist right away! With all of this in place, you're setting yourself up for temporary-dental-filling-success.
Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine
Fillings
Is Tooth Drilling Necessary In Dental Treatment?Tooth drilling is often necessary to take care of a cavity, but new technologies including plasma jets or lasers could make it a thing of the past.
Fillings
How Long Does It Take to Fill a Cavity?How long does it take to fill a cavity? While getting a cavity isn't fun, the treatment only takes about an hour, so book a visit with your dentist.
Fillings
What Happens When Your Child Gets a Filling?Going to the dentist is a regular event, but it can be stressful if you or your kids get sensitive teeth after filling work. Here's how to make it easier.
Fillings
Let's Compare Metal vs. Metal-Free FillingsHearing that you have a cavity can be upsetting, but there are many types of fillings that can solve the problem. Learn more about metal-free fillings.
Power away plaque with Colgate Total Battery Powered Toothbrush. This battery operated toothbrush for adults fights the root cause* of cavities, plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, tartar buildup**, and stains***. Plus, this battery toothbrush has a built in 2 minute timer and features two cleaning modes, Sensitive and Regular, to cater to your unique oral care needs.
Colgate Total Active Prevention Whitening Toothbrush is a soft toothbrush with charcoal infused spiral and Floss-Tip bristles (1). This soft bristle toothbrush fights the root cause* of cavities, plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, tartar buildup**, and stains*** and also helps remove surface stains to prevent stain buildup.
