You go to the dentist to get relief from pain, but you’re experiencing even more after having your cavity filled! The good news is- most of the time this pain is normal and will go away after a few days. However, knowing what kind of pain is normal can help you know whether you should wait it out or head right back to the dentist’s chair.

Normal Pain

Soreness of your mouth is very common after having a cavity filled, especially around the area of the affected tooth. It is also common to experience jaw pain. This happens because you’ve had to hold your jaw open for an extended period of time while the dentist works their magic. Sensitivity is also a common side-effect of having a cavity filled. Normal pain caused by a filling should disappear within a few days. If it lasts longer, you should contact your dentist.

Abnormal Pain

Pain when biting down isn’t a typical side-effect from having a cavity filled. However, it can be caused by the cavity filling. This happens when the filling is too high, giving you an abnormal bite. It can be difficult to determine if the bite is abnormal in the office, because the mouth has been numbed. Your dentist can remedy this by simply drilling the excess filling away. Pain when biting down can also be caused by a cracked tooth or filling. Sharp, pulsing pain typically indicates more serious problems with your oral health, so you should always contact your dentist when experiencing these symptoms.

Cavity fillings aren’t fun, but they are necessary to protect your health. There are several ways that you can reduce pain after dental procedures. Ensure that you brush your teeth gently and avoid aggravating the area. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods following a dental procedure. Use a toothpaste designed specifically for sensitive teeth. To learn more about what to expect when having a cavity filled, contact us at Mills River Family Dental today!

Your teeth wear down over time. When they wear down, it can lead to sensitivity, discoloration, and decay. Taking the steps to strengthen your teeth can help them stay healthy longer. It can also help them remain white and gleaming, as well as prevent expensive dental expenses.

Tooth Enamel

Enamel is a thin layer of protection over your teeth. Many things can cause enamel to wear out and it doesn’t regenerate. There are ways to slow the enamel’s deterioration, as well as attempt to remineralize and strengthen the remaining enamel.

Tooth Brushing

Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid brushing your teeth too hard or too frequently, because it will wear out the enamel faster. Using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash can also help remineralize the teeth. Fluoride is extremely useful, because it binds to the material of the teeth and helps to strengthen them.

Cut Down Sugar Consumption

Sugar feeds bacteria and damages your teeth. Studies have shown that it is more important to cut down on the frequency of sugar consumption rather than the amount. Every time you consume sugar, it leads to bacteria growth. Though removing sugar and food particles is important, it is also necessary to wait 30 minutes after eating before brushing your teeth. Your teeth will have softened and become more susceptible to damage during this time frame.

Keep Hydrated

A dry mouth is the optimal place for bacteria to grow. Staying hydrated makes a less welcoming environment for bacteria. Water also helps flush out food particles and bacteria from your mouth, before they form into plaque and tartar.

Nutrition

Your diet significantly impacts your teeth. Adding calcium and vitamins to your diet can help strengthen your teeth. Your teeth naturally produce calcium but it can wear away over time. Increasing your calcium intake can help restore the natural mineral to your teeth.

Strengthening your teeth can help prevent oral health problems from occurring. Another way to protect your teeth is through regular dental cleaning. To schedule your regular dental appointment, contact us at Mills River Family Dental today!

Taking good care of your teeth is vital in protecting your smile. Even if you are brushing your teeth twice a day, you may not be brushing them correctly or effectively. Changing the way you brush your teeth can help you get them cleaner, as well as more thoroughly remove plaque. Here are some tips for the correct way to brush your teeth.

Two Minutes, Twice a Day

It is important to brush your teeth for the appropriate length of time. Most people don’t even come near 2 minutes when they brush their teeth, but this is necessary to effectively clean off plaque and food particles. You must also brush twice a day. Your toothbrush should be the last thing to touch your teeth at night and it should occur at one other point in the day.

Short, Gentle Strokes

Short, gentle strokes are adequate to thoroughly clean your teeth. You should hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your teeth and brush back and forth. Using too much force can wear down the enamel of your teeth and actually cause damage.

Quadrants

Ensure that you hit every quadrant in your mouth when you brush your teeth. Pay equal attention to your back and front teeth. Ensure that you brush every surface of your teeth, including the back, front, and chewing surfaces.

It is important to brush your teeth correctly to keep them healthy. There are many other things that are necessary to protect your teeth. It is also important to replace your toothbrush regularly, floss once a day, and receive regular dental cleanings every 6 months. To learn more, or to schedule your regular dental cleaning, contact us at Mills River Family Dental today!