Dental fillings are common for kids as they are prone to cavities due to their love for sugary foods and poor oral hygiene. Although the procedure is simple, it’s crucial to take proper aftercare to ensure your child’s dental fillings last for a long time. In this guide, we will share some aftercare tips for dental fillings for kids.
1. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
After getting dental fillings, your child should avoid eating hard and sticky foods for at least 24 hours. Hard foods like nuts, popcorn, and hard candy can dislodge the filling, while sticky foods like gummies, caramel, and chewing gum can stick to the filling and pull it out. Instead, opt for soft foods like mashed potatoes, soup, and smoothies.
2. Brush and Floss Gently
Brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene, but your child should be gentle after getting dental fillings. Brushing too hard can damage the filling or cause sensitivity while flossing aggressively can dislodge it. Teach your child to brush and floss gently, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. This will keep their teeth and gums healthy and prevent any further decay around the filling.
3. Use Fluoride Mouthwash
Fluoride mouthwash is an excellent way to keep your child’s teeth healthy and prevent cavities. It’s even more beneficial after getting dental fillings as it helps to strengthen the tooth enamel and prevent decay around the filling. However, make sure your child doesn’t swallow the mouthwash and uses it under adult supervision.
4. Avoid Temperature Extremes
After dental fillings, your child’s teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Encourage them to avoid drinking extremely hot or cold beverages and eating ice cream or other frozen treats. This sensitivity usually disappears within a few days, but you should contact your child’s dentist if it persists.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are crucial for maintaining good oral health and detecting any potential problems early on. After getting dental fillings, schedule regular dental checkups for your child. Your dentist will examine the filling to ensure it’s holding up well. They will also clean your child’s teeth and provide additional tips for maintaining good oral hygiene.
6. Watch for Signs of Trouble
Although dental fillings are durable and long-lasting, they can still wear out or become damaged over time. Watch out for signs of trouble, such as pain, sensitivity, or a rough or chipped filling. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. They will examine the filling and determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy with Watertown Dentistry
Dental fillings may help to restore the damaged tooth structure and prevent further decay, but taking proper aftercare for dental fillings is essential for maintaining good oral health for your child. By following the tips mentioned above, you can ensure your child’s dental fillings last for a long time and prevent further cavities. Remember, prevention is better than cure, and maintaining good oral hygiene habits can go a long way in preventing dental problems.
Ensure your child’s dental health with a trusted pediatric dentist in Watertown! Specializing in preventative and cosmetic dentistry, our dentists at Watertown Dentistry recommend proper dental care before children turn one year old to detect potential problems early. We make sure that each visit is stress-free for you and your child. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team!