Dentistry focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating conditions of the teeth, gums, and oral structures, supporting oral health and overall well-being.
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The placement of a dental filling restores the form and function of a tooth, but it does not render the tooth immune to future decay. In fact, the interface between the restorative material and the natural tooth structure the restoration margin is the most vulnerable site for bacterial accumulation and “recurrent caries.” Therefore, maintaining a filling requires a proactive and rigorous oral hygiene regimen. At Liv Hospital, we emphasize that the longevity of dental fillings is directly correlated with the patient’s ability to control the oral biofilm. Our oral hygiene protocols are designed not just to clean the teeth, but to modify the oral environment to favor remineralization and health, ensuring that the investment in restorative dentistry is preserved for years.
The microscopic gap between a filling and the tooth, even in the best-bonded restorations, can harbor bacteria if not cleaned.
Biofilm Management: The goal of hygiene is to disrupt the organized bacterial colonies (plaque) daily so they cannot produce the acids that dissolve the enamel at the margin.
Standard scrubbing is insufficient for maintaining restored teeth.
Electric Toothbrushes: Oscillating-rotating brushes are clinically proven to remove more plaque than manual brushing, particularly in hard-to-reach posterior areas where fillings are common.
Most fillings in molars and premolars involve the contact point between teeth (Class II). This area is immune to toothbrushing.
Water Flossers: Highly effective for flushing out debris from around deep fillings and crowns, reducing the inflammatory burden on the gums.
To protect the tooth structure surrounding the filling, chemical defense is needed.
Xylitol: Chewing gum or mints containing xylitol helps stimulate saliva flow (the body’s natural buffer) and inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans.
The chemical environment of the mouth dictates the survival of the filling.
Bruxism Awareness: Patients who grind their teeth can fracture composite dental fillings. Wearing a night guard protects both the natural tooth and the restoration from excessive mechanical force.
Polishing: Old composite fillings can absorb stains and become rough. Professional polishing can rejuvenate the surface, improve esthetics, and reduce plaque retention.
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Yes, while you brush them like natural teeth, you must be extra diligent about flossing and using fluoride, as decay can easily start again at the microscopic edge where the filling meets the tooth.
Whitening toothpastes will not change the color of the filling material and can be abrasive, potentially scratching the composite resin; it is better to use a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
For the first 24 hours (especially with amalgam), avoid hard or sticky foods; for composites, you can eat normally, but avoiding ice and hard candies long-term prevents fractures.
Properly bonded fillings will not be pulled out by floss; if a filling comes out during flossing, it was likely already loose, or there was decay underneath it.
Fillings should be checked at least every 6 months during your routine dental exam and cleaning to ensure the margins are sealed and there are no cracks or new decay.
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