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Facts about Dental X-Rays

October 11, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Facts about Dental X-Rays

If you treasure your dental health and go to your Sterling Heights dentist’s office regularly, chances are high you have had dental X-rays taken from time to time. This article discusses the facts about dental X-rays that you need to know.

What Are Dental X-Rays?

Dental X-rays are 2D images taken of your oral structures in order to make it easy for your dentist in Sterling Heights to assess your oral health and design an appropriate treatment plan in case any adverse condition is detected.

Dental X-rays may be digital or film images. Digital dental X-rays are newer, faster and safer than film X-rays. This reduces any risks that you may be exposed to as you undergo the diagnostic imaging procedure.

Types of Dental X-Rays

Intraoral X-Rays. Intra means “within or inside”. Intraoral dental X-rays are therefore X-rays that are taken from inside the oral cavity. These images allow the dentist to take a close look at the different structures within your mouth, such as the roots of your teeth, the supporting bone mass and any cavities developing in your mouth.

Extraoral X-Rays. These are taken from outside the mouth. Extraoral X-rays are used to look at the bigger picture of your oral health. For example, your Sterling Heights dentist may need an extraoral X-ray in order to find out whether you sustained any fractures to your jaws during an auto accident. The X-rays may also be used to assess the alignment of your jawbones with the bones in the skull.

How Often Can One Have Dental X-Rays?

X-rays carry a risk of exposure to radiation. For that reason, most dentists in Sterling Heights will limit how often they ask you to undergo dental X-rays.

However, you will usually be asked to have routine dental X-rays done once each year to monitor your dental health and address any issues that develop.

Other dental X-rays will be ordered based on the challenges you are facing. Remember, X-rays are a diagnostic tool that will only be ordered by your Sterling Heights dentist when needed.

Shreveport’s dentist Dr. Ben Kacos agrees that people who are switching from one primary dental care provider to another should give the new dentist the recent dental X-rays taken by the previous dentist in order to avoid having to repeat the imaging process so soon after other images were taken.

What Safety Measures Are Taken During the Process?

Sterling Heights dentists and radiologists take several precautions to limit your exposure to potentially harmful radiation.

First, they drape you in a leaded apron to protect your lower body from radiation. A leaded thyroid collar protects your thyroid gland from radiation.

The dentist will also limit how long the imaging process takes so that your teeth are exposed to the lowest level of radiation possible. As mentioned earlier, digital X-ray equipment emits about 80% less radiation than the traditional X-ray machines.

It is important that you notify your Sterling Heights dentist if you are pregnant so that he or she can take any extra precautions necessary or even postpone the imaging procedure in case it isn’t urgently needed.

As you can see, the facts about dental X-rays speak for themselves. Don’t be misled by the misconceptions that abound about this diagnostic tool. Speak to a dentist in Sterling Heights about your concerns so that you can be given the right information. After all, good dental care starts with you and your dentist having the right information about what is going on in your mouth.

Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Erosion

October 9, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Erosion

Tooth erosion refers to the wearing away of the enamel on your teeth by the acids in the foods and drinks that you consume. The symptoms and signs of enamel erosion depend on how advanced that enamel loss is. This article discusses some of those signs and symptoms of tooth erosion that dentists in Sterling Heights frequently observe in their patients.

The Early Symptoms of Enamel Loss

Teeth Discoloration

The erosion of the enamel of your teeth brings the dentin closer to the surface. Dentin is naturally yellowish. Your teeth will, therefore, become discolored once this substance is exposed or brought nearer to the surface of the teeth. However, you should avoid making a premature conclusion that your discolored teeth are caused by enamel loss because other factors, such as poor dental hygiene and cigarette smoking, can cause teeth to become discolored.

Tooth Sensitivity

You can also suspect that you are suffering from enamel loss in case your teeth are sensitive. The sensitivity is usually caused by the exposure of dentin once the enamel is eroded. Dentin is softer and more sensitive to temperature variations. Consequently, your teeth will become increasingly sensitive as more dentin is exposed.

Rounded Teeth

Enamel loss occurs gradually and in small amounts. The sharper edges of your teeth are the first to lose their enamel coating since they are instrumental in chewing the foods responsible for causing the tooth erosion. Those sharp edges, such as the ridges on your molars, will therefore start becoming rounded. This will spread until all your teeth take on a rounded appearance.

A Sandblasted or Transparent Appearance

The tips of your teeth can also look sandblasted or transparent during the initial stages of enamel loss. The sandblasted appearance is a result of the pitting that is occurring on the surface of the teeth exposed to acidic foods and drinks on a regular basis. Those teeth start becoming transparent because the enamel is getting thinner.

The Advanced Symptoms of Enamel Loss

Cracked Teeth

As enamel loss worsens into an advanced form, the teeth will start cracking in the areas where pitting occurred. Those cracked segments will feel rough when you pass your tongue over them. The cracks will allow acids, bacteria and food particles to get into the deeper sections of your teeth. This will trigger other dental problems, such as cavities and extensive tooth decay. Dental experts in Livonia, MI agree that your dentist in Sterling Heights may then have to perform complex dental procedures like root canals or install dental crowns. Some of the affected teeth may also need to be extracted.

Dents

Dents (also called cupping) will develop on the biting surfaces of your teeth. The dents are an indicator that enamel loss isn’t occurring uniformly on the affected surfaces of the teeth. The problem with such dents is that they will cause bite forces to be distributed unevenly across the teeth surfaces. This uneven distribution of bite forces accelerates the rate at which the teeth wear out since some sections will be subjected to greater stresses than others are.

Extreme Sensitivity

Extreme teeth sensitivity results when enamel loss is advanced. At this stage, you will feel a sharp or stabbing pain each time anything hot or cold touches your teeth. Many people try to avoid eating since the pain is too much to bear.

It is important for you to visit a dentist in Sterling Heights for a comprehensive examination when you notice any of the signs and symptoms discussed above. That professional will take the necessary steps to address the root cause of the symptoms you are experiencing. This may save you from losing your teeth to the advanced form of enamel loss.

The Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening Treatments

October 4, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

The Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening Treatments

Are you uncomfortable about the discoloration of your teeth and you want to select a teeth whitening treatment to improve your smile? Read on and discover the pros and cons of some of the common procedures that are available for whitening your teeth in Sterling Heights.

Teeth Whitening Strips

You can whiten your teeth by applying teeth whitening strips on your teeth for about half an hour each day. The procedure may require up to two weeks for results to show. Some brands of teeth whitening strips don’t need to be removed from the teeth since those strips can dissolve.

Teeth whitening strips have several advantages. First, they are suitable for people with sensitive gums since these strips contain a small amount of bleaching agents. Secondly, the strips are affordable and can be bought from any drugstore, pharmacy or dentist in Sterling Heights. Teeth whitening strips are also convenient because you can choose when you apply them each day.

However, teeth whitening strips also have some shortcomings. For example, the strips only whiten the teeth surfaces that they touch. Consequently, hard-to-reach segments of the teeth, such as the areas between teeth, may remain untouched by the strips. Secondly, they aren’t suitable for someone who wants quick results since the mild bleaching agent requires about two weeks for results to show.

Teeth Whitening Mouthwashes

You can also use teeth whitening mouthwashes to get a brighter smile. These mouthwashes contain a mild solution of hydrogen peroxide. The usage instructions vary from one manufacturer to another, but they generally require the user to rinse the mouth twice a day (after brushing). You simply swish the mouthwash in your mouth for about a minute.

Teeth whitening mouthwashes have the advantage of only requiring about two minutes each day. The teeth whitening mouthwashes are also mild on your enamel as they work to whiten your teeth. Furthermore, the rinses eliminate bad breath.

However, teeth whitening mouthwashes require longer (more than a month) for results to show since you only swish that product briefly in your mouth. The teeth whitening mouthwash may also irritate your gums due to the high amount of alcohol in the mouth rinse.

In-Chair Teeth Whitening

Another alternative to whitening your teeth is the in-chair whitening treatment at the office of your dentist in Sterling Heights. Your dentist will apply a teeth whitening gel and accelerate its effectiveness by shining a UV light on your teeth. You will have your brighter smile in just an hour.

In-chair teeth whitening produces instant results. Additionally, the controlled dental office environment in which the treatment is done ensures that adequate precautions will be taken to protect you from any risks associated with the whitening gel. The method is also convenient since you can have whiter teeth in just an hour.

However, in-chair teeth whitening does have its drawbacks. For example, this method is the most expensive among the teeth whitening options available in Sterling Heights. Secondly, not everyone can undergo the treatment since the dentist must first assess you for any risk factors, such as gum disease, which can make the treatment unsafe for you. The outcomes of in-chair dental whitening aren’t permanent, so you may need to repeat the treatment every two years.

At-Home Dental Whitening Kits

At-home teeth whitening kits usually contain a dental tray, a bleaching gel as well as an accelerator light. Your task is to follow the usage instructions provided and wear the dental tray for anywhere between half an hour to a full hour each day. You can see results in about a week.

Dental experts at Horizon Dental Group agree that one big advantage of at-home teeth whitening kits is that you can achieve professional-looking results from the comfort of your home. The kits can also turn your teeth several shades brighter within a week. The dental whitening kits are affordable when compared to getting the same results during an in-chair treatment.

The biggest drawback of at-home teeth whitening kits is that the outcomes will vary depending on the quality of the product that you purchase. Many people also find it inconveniencing to set aside about an hour each day to wear the tray.

As you can see, each teeth whitening treatment comes with its own unique pros and cons. It is therefore advisable for you to contact a dentist in Sterling Heights or any nearby dentist for advice on the best option to use. You will then get the smile of your dreams cost-effectively.

Are Oral Health Issues Genetic?

October 3, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Are oral health issues genetic?

Should you thank (or blame) your parents for the state of your dental health? In other words, are oral health issues genetic?

Patterns and behaviors in the family, while you were growing up, can influence your dental health for life.

For one, studies have shown that children who were taught good dental hygiene early will most likely be diligent in their adulthood. As such, they get to enjoy stronger, better-looking teeth and gums than their peers who were not as meticulous about dental care.

Aside from family habits, genetics also play a key role in determining oral health.

Dental experts at Laurich Dentistry agree that you can be prone to certain teeth and gum conditions if these are in your genes. Add environmental risk factors in the mix, and you can most likely catch the dental problem that most of the people in your family also have.

The following are some of the dental conditions that have been associated with genetics:

Tooth decay

What to do: Go to your dentist for professional cleaning on a regular basis. Your dentist may also recommend dental sealants and fluoride treatment (especially for teens) and may prescribe the use of toothpaste and mouthwash with strong anti-cavity formulation.

Periodontal disease

What to do: If there is gum disease in your family, make sure to share the information with your dentist when talking about your medical history. This way, your dentist can focus on preventive measures and early detection. As such, regular dental checkups are a must.

Bad bite

What to do: Misaligned, crooked, crowded or missing teeth can cause a bad bite. If this is common in your family, tell your dentist about it for orthodontic checkup and treatment as early as possible.

Oral cancer

What to do: Know that oral cancer is largely associated with cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption. But genetics also play a role, especially if combined with those lifestyle risk factors.

Going to a trusted Sterling Heights dentist that offers oral cancer screening services is an important self-care procedure. Regular oral cancer screening is recommended even if you don’t have a family history of the condition.

Talk to your dentist

The best dentist in Sterling Heights, MI dentist in Sterling Heights, MI will not only treat your dental problems as they come. Instead, they will be proactive about knowing more about you, your dental health background and your goals about your dental health.

Go to a dentist who can provide the care and help that suits your unique needs. This way, you prevent serious dental problems – whether they’re genetic or not.

Should I go to the Dentist If I’m Sick?

September 26, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Should I Go to the Dentist If I’m Sick?

You have made the appointment. And to prepare for it, you have made the necessary arrangements: requested for a day off work, arranged for childcare at home, or put your business dealings on hold (or in the hands of a capable deputy). You have also rescheduled your other things to do so you can make time for much-needed dental care.

But a few days before your scheduled visit to the dentist, you begin to feel under the weather. The sniffles are non-stop, the headache starts to throb, your limbs are jelly, and you feel a fever creeping in.

You start to question: Should I go to the dentist if I’m sick?

It’s a valid question and one that needs a proper answer because it involves not just your health and safety, but also the health and safety of your dental care providers. Without the necessary precautions, your illness can get worse or lead to complications. At the same time, if it’s contagious, it can potentially spread to the dental team and even to the other people present in the clinic, too. To make the right decision, there are some factors you should consider. We asked our friends at Laurich Dentistry to see their thoughts.

What to Take Into Consideration

If your illness affects the respiratory area and particularly the throat and mouth, it may be time to cancel the appointment. When you’re coughing and sneezing as the dentist works in close contact with your mouth and nose, the infection can quickly spread.
If you have a cold, undergoing dental treatments while suffering from a runny or stuffed nose can make it difficult for you to breathe.
If you have a cold sore, it can be exposed to irritation during dental procedures. At the same time, your dentist and nurse may also be exposed to viruses from the cold sore, especially if proper precautions were not taken.
If you have flu symptoms such as high fever, body pains, headache, chills, and fatigue, it may be best to reschedule. This is because the general recommendation for people with flu is to avoid going to public places to prevent infecting other people in the vicinity.

If you feel sick during the days prior to your dentist appointment at Dental One Care, take note and list down your symptoms. Call the dental office in advance and share your list of symptoms so your dentist can determine whether or not you are fit to proceed with the appointment. Should the latter turn out to be the best route, for now, your trusted dentist in Sterling Heights, MI will be happy to reschedule your session to the nearest available date.

What is a Dead Tooth?

September 19, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

What is a Dead Tooth?

What is a dead tooth and what can you do about it?

A tooth is considered dead when there is no more blood flowing into its most vital parts: the nerves and blood vessels, connective tissue and nerves that make up its pulp.

A dead tooth won’t necessarily rest in peace. In some cases, it can haunt you – as it can cause the following issues:

Pain: The site can still harbor bacteria, causing pus buildup. This buildup, coupled with the remaining dead nerves, can place pressure on the periodontal membrane.
Infection: The situation above can lead to infection and inflammation. Left untreated, the bacterial infection can spread to nearby teeth. It can also penetrate deeper into the root and jawbone.
Abscess: Our friends at Laurich Dentistry said that the infection can turn into an abscess, causing swelling, immense pain, bad taste and bad odor in the mouth. Pimples on the gums and side of the mouth can also most likely occur.
Complications: Infection in the teeth, especially when left unattended, leads to other dental problems. Complications can affect not just the mouth but also other parts of the body.
Discoloration: The enamel of a dead tooth can darken, turning yellow, gray and eventually black over time.

What to do if a tooth dies

If you suspect your tooth is dying or dead, go to your dentist in Sterling Heights immediately. Pay the visit even if you are not experiencing pain. Immediate detection and treatment are important as these will protect the site from further infection.

Your dentist will check the site and may use an X-ray to further investigate its current state. Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may recommend either root canal or extraction.

Root canal therapy is often the first option as its objective is to save the tooth. The procedure will allow your dentist to remove all decaying and remaining pulp and clear all infection within and around the tooth.

After the tooth’s interior has been cleaned and disinfected, the site will be filled and sealed. To improve the tooth’s aesthetics, whitening treatment, crowns or veneers are usually recommended.

Meanwhile, if the entire tooth structure cannot be saved, then tooth extraction will be the only solution. The extracted tooth can be replaced with a fixed bridge, implant or denture.

Preventing the death of a tooth

The most common causes of tooth death are tooth decay and physical trauma.

To prevent tooth decay, establishing good dental habits is of utmost importance. Commit to lifelong dental care including practicing proper brushing and flossing, avoiding smoking, alcohol and too many sweets, and visiting your dentist regularly.

To prevent injuries in the mouth, the use of mouthguards when playing highly active sports is a must. If the trauma is a result of an accident or an unexpected incident, then make sure to call your trusted Sterling Heights dentist immediately to increase the chances of saving the tooth.

How Do I Know If I Have A Cavity?

September 13, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

How Do I Know If I Have A Cavity?

One of the many questions people who are focused on maintaining good oral health always ask is “Do I have a cavity?”

Cavities are the leading causes of tooth loss; as such, it is important that you nip dental caries in the bud to prevent them from becoming full-blown dental problems.

A cavity can be reversed if tooth decay is discovered in its early stages. Tooth pain is often the most noticeable sign of decay, but it is not the only and first indication. There are other signs and symptoms that accompany the start of a cavity.

So how do I know if I have a cavity? Here are some other signs and symptoms you have to be aware of:

Black, brown, or gray spots on your teeth

A cavity eats its way into your tooth. Because of this, it creates a hole. However, this hole does not show up right away. You will first see a gray, brown, or black spot instead.

If you see a spot or stain with any of these colors that do not go away after brushing, you already have a bacterial problem working its way into your enamel. To avoid having a full-blown dental issue, see your dentist as soon as possible.

Tooth sensitivity

In addition to tooth pain, you will also often feel tooth sensitivity when you develop a cavity. This sensitivity manifests whenever you eat something hot, cold, sugary, or acidic. You may even feel an uncomfortable tingling on your teeth when you breathe in hot or cold air.

A Sterling Heights dentist says that your teeth become extra-sensitive because the bacteria make your tooth enamel weaker. The enamel protects the highly receptive nerves within a tooth. As that protective layer becomes thinner, the nerves receive more powerful signals.

If your tooth sensitivity is becoming more and more unbearable, visit your dentist immediately.

Bad breath

If you ignore any tooth decay, bacteria will proliferate in your tooth. This will lead to bad breath. When you notice that your breath still smells bad even if you brush your teeth and tongue regularly, schedule a checkup with your dentist.

Lingering bad taste in your mouth

Brushing and gargling with mouthwash will help you get rid of the bad taste in your mouth. But Shreveport’s dentist, Dr. Ben Kacos says that if you notice a chronic bad taste, have your teeth checked since this may be a sign that a cavity needs to be cleaned out and filled.

Cracked tooth

Although most cracked teeth are caused by accidents or really hard foods, they can also be triggered by cavities. Since cavities weaken your tooth enamel, your tooth becomes more vulnerable when you are chewing crunchy foods.

If you crack a tooth, schedule a dentist appointment immediately and avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth until after your checkup.

Your dentist will also pinpoint cavities in your teeth that you do not notice or that have not shown any symptoms yet. It is, therefore, important that you visit your dentist twice a year even if you are not experiencing any dental problems.

When To Call The Dentist About Your Wisdom Teeth

September 11, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

When To Call The Dentist About Your Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth usually appear when a person is between the ages of 17 to 25. While they are coming out, they may cause short-term pain, similar to the discomfort you feel from the eruption of your other teeth.

However, the appearance of wisdom teeth is often marked by other types and levels of discomfort and inconvenience. Whether they have fully erupted or not yet, you need to know when to call the dentist about your wisdom teeth.

Below are five signs that indicate you need to have your wisdom teeth checked by your dentist immediately:

You feel constant pain in the back of your mouth

As already mentioned, the eruption of wisdom teeth often causes aches and pains. They usually go away, especially once the teeth have fully erupted. However, if the pain lingers, you have to see your dentist as soon as possible. He or she will determine if the wisdom tooth is causing the pain or if something else is behind it.

If a wisdom tooth is impacted, which means the tooth came through at an angle or only partially pushed through the gum, this comes with a great deal of pain and can cause an infection. In this instance, your dentist will recommend a wisdom tooth extraction.

Your wisdom teeth are not straight

If your wisdom teeth did not grow or erupt straight, they could cause the adjacent teeth to move. They may even damage your other healthy teeth.

In most cases, removing the crooked wisdom teeth will prevent the other teeth from being damaged.

You have difficulties eating or chewing

If you constantly experience pain while eating or chewing, you need to see your dentist immediately as well. Our dental friends at Laurich Dentistry says that food could be getting stuck in between the gums and the tops of your wisdom teeth. If you can’t clean these areas thoroughly, you will have a bigger problem in the future.

Your dentist will be able to recommend the right products to fix this problem. If your dentist can’t find the suitable solution, extraction may be the best solution.

Your gums are inflamed

Some wisdom teeth can create a flap of gum tissue that resides next to the tooth when they start erupting. This gum tissue can trap small pieces of food and bacteria. This, in turn, will cause the tissue around the teeth to become hard and inflamed and difficult to clean. This is condition is called pericoronitis.

When this type of dental problem occurs, Dr. Farhat, a dentist from Sterling Heights, says that extraction is usually the best treatment option.

Your wisdom teeth have cavities

Finally, the position of your wisdom teeth can also make it hard for you to clean them properly. If you can’t keep them thoroughly clean through brushing and flossing, the gums will become irritated. Pockets can then develop between the teeth and cause bacteria to grow. This will then encourage the growth of cavities leading to tooth decay and infection.

If you’re in Michigan and you notice one or more of these signs on your wisdom teeth, visit Dental 1 Care straightaway. Our dentists will diagnose and provide the best treatment option to address your specific dental problem.

Dental 101: The 4 Best Ways to Clean Retainers

September 6, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Retainers are among the more commonly prescribed dental devices for teeth straightening. And one dilemma users face is cleaning properly their retainers.

Ensuring your retainers are correctly cleaned and hygienic is paramount as they can become breeding grounds for bad breath-causing bacteria and provide surface adhesion for tartar.

With the expert advice of Dr. Farhat, an experienced orthodontist in Sterling Heights, we talk about the four best ways to clean retainers:

1. The good old toothbrush and toothpaste combo

Some people assume that using a toothbrush to clean retainers is a no-no as it is believed to be abrasive. However, using your toothbrush is actually the most effective way of getting rid of the tartar which attaches itself to your teeth, gumline and, of course, your retainers.

Just be sure to use toothpaste that only has natural ingredients and is free from glycerin, polyethylene microbeads, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and triclosan. Gently brush your retainers with toothpaste and rinse with water before putting them back on for the night.

2. Use a non-alcoholic mouthwash soak

If you plan on using mouthwash to sanitize your retainers, be sure that it is alcohol and SLS-free. Also, use one that is clear to avoid any discoloration on your retainers. You can soak your retainers in mouthwash for an hour, and then gently brush them after removing them from the liquid.

3. Denture cleaner

You can use regular denture cleaner to clean your retainers. Polident, Iondent, Efferdent, and Dentasoak are denture cleaning products you can use on your retainers. Just follow the package instructions and gently brush your retainers afterward during rinsing.

4. Baking soda and white vinegar

Considered natural cleaning agents, baking soda mixed with distilled water and white vinegar can also be used for safely and effectively cleaning your retainers.

Just mix together two tablespoons of white vinegar with 3/4 cups of distilled water, and then add a teaspoon of baking soda. You can soak your retainers in the mixture for about 10 minutes. Afterward, brush your retainers with a soft brush and rinse them with cool water.

Our friends at Horizon Dental Group suggest another option. Alternatively, you can also mix 1 part distilled white vinegar with 3 parts water in a plastic cup or a glass. Soak your retainers in the mixture for 15 minutes, then brush gently with a soft toothbrush.

What to Avoid

No matter how tough your retainers may seem, treat them with a little TLC so they serve their purpose. Try not to use the following in cleaning them:

Cleaning agents with alcohol, SLS, bleach and the like
Boiling or very hot water
Dishwashers

If you need more information on maintaining your retainers, be sure to get in touch with your dentist for the most reliable advice out there.

When Can I Eat After a Tooth Filling?

September 4, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

When Can I Eat After a Tooth Filling?

Tooth fillings are generally not welcomed with open arms by patients once their dentist makes such a recommendation.

Aside from the seemingly primal fear of the sound of the dental drill, the pain expected once the anesthesia wears off makes people wonder if they can eat at all after the filling session is done.

So if you’re wont to ask: “When can I eat after a filling?” Dr. Farhat, a trusted orthodontist in Sterling Heights, MI, has the following answer and tips to ensure minimal discomfort after getting a filling:

Tooth Filling Tips

The anesthetic administered prior to the filling procedure normally wears off after about one to three hours. Once this happens, you may start eating soft foods such as soup or porridge (nothing too sticky, though).
After the filling work is done, some discomfort, tooth sensitivity, and soreness may be experienced for a couple of hours, days or even weeks.
What you can eat after getting your teeth filled is dependent on the material used. Silver may require you to avoid hard foods and no direct chewing for up to 24 hours. Teeth with composite (white) fillings which harden right away can be used for chewing as soon as the anesthesia wears off. Softer filling material like amalgam may require you to wait longer before you can bite or chew on solid foods.
Take note of whether or not you feel the recently filled teeth hitting first when you bite, as this should not be the case. A quick visit to your dentist would be necessary.
Be sure to bite and chew gently, and try to avoid using the filled teeth for these right away.
Since cold air can trigger tooth sensitivity in some people, always make it a point to chew with your mouth closed to prevent tooth pain.
Our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, says to avoid getting any of your fillings dislodged because of food, try not to eat sticky food at first, and wait for the filling to completely set.
Extreme heat and cold can trigger tooth sensitivity, so choose to consume moderately warm or cool food items and beverages.
Lay off the sweets! Consuming sugary drinks and foods can lead to bacterial growth in the areas around the new filling.
Keep away from tough, hard food items like hard candies, nuts, and ice. Aside from possibly causing pain and discomfort, biting hard can dislodge any unset fillings.

With the above expert advice, you should know by now that getting tooth fillings do not equate to starving afterward. Additionally, pain management is quite possible if you follow your dentist’s instructions. So, happy filling!