Caring for Your Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are a durable, attractive option for restoring decayed or damaged teeth. But just like your natural teeth, they require care and maintenance to stay strong and beautiful over time. At Sweet Water Dentistry, we want to help you protect your investment and keep your smile in great shape for years to come.

In this blog, we’ll share essential care tips for composite fillings and let you know when it might be time to see your dentist.

Daily Oral Hygiene Is Key

The foundation of maintaining any dental work—including composite fillings—is consistent, thorough oral hygiene. Here’s what we recommend:

• Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food debris between your teeth.
• Use a mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen breath.

Good oral hygiene keeps your fillings clean, prevents decay around them, and protects your entire smile.

Be Mindful of What You Eat

Composite fillings are strong, but they’re not indestructible. Some habits and foods can shorten their lifespan. Avoid:

• Chewing ice or hard candies
• Biting into pens or fingernails
• Frequent snacking on sticky or sugary foods

Instead, choose a balanced diet with crunchy fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and plenty of water to promote oral health.

Watch for Signs of Wear or Damage

While composite fillings are built to last, they may eventually chip, crack, or wear down. Keep an eye out for:

• A rough or jagged edge on your tooth
• New sensitivity to hot or cold
• Discoloration near the filling
• Pain when biting or chewing

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a visit to Sweet Water Dentistry for a quick evaluation.

Schedule Regular Dental Visits

Professional checkups are essential for preserving both your fillings and your natural teeth. We recommend visiting every six months for:

• A thorough cleaning
• X-rays if needed
• Examination of your fillings for signs of wear or leakage

Routine visits allow us to catch problems early and keep your fillings looking and functioning their best.

Nightguards Can Help Prevent Damage

If you grind or clench your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), your composite fillings are at risk for premature wear. A custom nightguard from our office can:

• Protect your teeth and fillings from excessive pressure
• Prevent fractures or chipping
• Reduce jaw tension and headaches

Ask Dr. Greer if a nightguard is right for you during your next appointment.

What to Avoid After Getting a New Composite Filling

Right after your filling is placed, your tooth may be slightly sensitive. To help your mouth adjust, we suggest:

• Avoiding very hot or cold foods for the first 24–48 hours
• Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth initially
• Being gentle with brushing near the new filling

This temporary sensitivity usually fades quickly. If it persists beyond a week, give us a call.

Composite Fillings Can Be Repaired

Another great advantage of composite material is that it can often be repaired without full replacement. If your filling becomes damaged, we may be able to add new material to it in a quick, minimally invasive procedure.

This makes ongoing maintenance more convenient and cost-effective.

Let Us Help You Protect Your Smile

At Sweet Water Dentistry, we’re committed to helping you get the most from your dental care. Our team is always here to answer your questions, monitor your restorations, and provide preventive care to keep your fillings—and your entire smile—healthy.

Call us at 251-210-2773 or schedule online for your next checkup, or if you have concerns about an existing filling.

With proper care, your composite fillings can remain beautiful, functional, and worry-free for many years to come!

Visit us for expert care:

Sweet Water Dentistry
📍 5915 Sweetwater Cir, Fairhope, AL 36532
🌐 sweetwatersmile.com
📞 Call or Text: (251) 210-2773

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