Caring for Tooth-colored Fillings to Maximize their Lifespan
General dentistry services help patients maintain good oral health, but the truth is, tooth decay still happens. When a cavity is present, it is important to restore the tooth with a dental filling. While most patients are eager to improve the health and strength of their tooth, many worry about how the tooth will look after treatment. Fortunately, the unattractive, metal fillings that many are familiar with are no longer the only treatment option for cavities. At Astoria Dental Group, we offer our patients tooth-colored fillings. Not only are these restorations more attractive, but tooth-colored fillings lifespan is long and aftercare is easy for our Queens patients.
How Long will Tooth-colored Fillings Last?
For many years, metal fillings were preferred by most dentists because of their strength and durability. However, tooth-colored fillings have been shown to have lifespans that are comparable to metal fillings. In fact, tooth-colored fillings actually bond to the natural tooth and do not expand and contract like metal fillings. There is no guarantee as to exactly how long a tooth-colored filling will last and different patients may get different results, but on average, the lifespan of tooth-colored fillings is between 10 and 15 years, with many patients enjoying their fillings for more than a decade.
Aftercare Tips
Although there is no way to guarantee how long a tooth-colored filling will last, patients can improve the odds that a filling will last for many years by caring for it properly after treatment. In order to maximize the lifespan of a tooth-colored filling, patients should adhere to the following aftercare tips:
- Brush and floss regularly: Although tooth-colored fillings are fabricated using materials that will not decay, the natural tooth below the filling is still susceptible to damage and deterioration. Brushing and flossing regularly can help keep the natural teeth healthy so that no further treatment is needed.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups: Another vital part of maintaining good oral health (and preserving your tooth-colored filling) is professional dental care. Regular dental check-ups allow our dentists to examine the health of the teeth and gums and schedule any necessary restorative dental work so that oral health problems can be treated before they get out of hand.
- Rinse with water between meals: Many people find that it is hard to brush their teeth between each meal, but most people have easy access to water. If you are unable to brush after a meal, rinse the mouth with water. This will help to wash away food particles that will attract bacteria.
- Avoid hard, sticky foods: Tooth-colored fillings are strong, but it is not wise to test their limits with the constant consumption of hard, sticky foods. These foods can easily cause a tooth-colored filling to chip or crack.
Contact Us
From tooth-colored fillings, to dental crowns and dental implants, the experienced dentists at Astoria Dental Group offer the restorative dental treatments that can strengthen your teeth and improve the health of your smile. To learn more about our comprehensive range of dental care, contact us at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!
