How to Maintain Your New Tooth Filling To Make It Last Longer
How to Maintain Your New Tooth Filling To Make It Last Longer
Just had a dental filling done? You’ve taken the first step toward restoring your tooth and protecting your smile. But what happens after you leave the dental chair is just as important as the procedure itself.
At Unique Dental Clinic Kota Kinabalu, many patients ask:
“Can I eat after a filling?”
“Why did my old filling fall out?”
“How long should my filling last?”
This comprehensive guide answers all your burning questions and gives you the right tools to protect your filling – and your overall dental health – for the long run.
What Is a Tooth Filling and Why Do You Need One?
A tooth filling is a dental treatment used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay, wear, or trauma. The decayed portion of the tooth is removed and the remaining structure is filled with a strong, protective material.
Fillings help:
- Prevent further decay
- Restore normal chewing and speaking
- Maintain tooth structure and alignment
They can be made of composite resin and porcelain, each with their own advantages depending on your needs.
1. Composite Resin (Tooth-Coloured Fillings)
Best for: Front teeth, visible areas, people concerned about aesthetics
Composite fillings are made of a tooth-coloured resin that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. It’s the go-to choice for patients who want invisible repairs, especially in visible areas like the front teeth.
Pros:
- Matches your natural tooth shade
- Bonds well to the tooth, requiring less removal of healthy structure
- Versatile and suitable for small to medium cavities
Cons:
- Not as durable as metal fillings for heavy chewing
- May stain over time
Lasts about 5-10 years with proper care
2. Porcelain (Ceramic Fillings/Inlays & Onlays)
Best for: Larger restorations, people who want stain-resistant and long-lasting options
Porcelain fillings, often used as inlays or onlays, are custom-made in a dental lab and cemented onto the tooth. They are popular for their aesthetic appeal and durability – offering the best of both worlds.
Pros:
- Excellent match to natural teeth
- Highly resistant to staining
- Lasts 10-15 years or more
Cons:
- More expensive than composite and amalgam
- Requires multiple visits in some cases (for lab work)
- More brittle than gold (may chip under extreme pressure)
3. Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC Fillings)
Best for: Non-chewing surfaces, fillings near the gum line, children’s teeth, and temporary restorations
Glass ionomer cement is a unique type of filling material made from a blend of glass particles and organic acid, which forms a chemical bond with the tooth. It’s not just about sealing the cavity — GIC fillings also release fluoride over time, helping to strengthen the surrounding enamel and reduce the risk of future decay.
Dentists often choose GIC for baby teeth, temporary fillings, or sensitive areas where moisture control is tricky. It’s also a common choice for patients with high cavity risk or those who need a more gentle approach to treatment.
Pros:
- Chemically bonds to tooth structure for a strong seal
- Fluoride-releasing, which helps prevent further decay
- Requires minimal drilling — preserves more natural tooth
- Great for areas near the gumline or for children’s teeth
Cons:
- Less durable than composite or amalgam
- Not ideal for high-pressure chewing areas (like molars)
- More prone to wear and chipping over time
While GIC may not be the best long-term solution for every patient, it serves an important role in modern dentistry — especially in preventive care, pediatric cases, and when a minimally invasive approach is preferred.
So, Which Filling Material Should You Choose?
The best filling material for you depends on several factors, including:
- The location of the filling (front vs. back teeth)
- Aesthetic preferences (invisible vs. visible)
- Budget
- Bite pressure and chewing habits
- Allergies or sensitivities to metal
At Unique Dental Clinic, we take time to explain your options clearly and help you make an informed decision based on your dental needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Are tooth fillings permanent?
Fillings are durable but not permanent. Their longevity depends on the material used, how well you care for them, and the condition of the surrounding tooth.
Post-Filling Care 101: What To Do After Getting a Tooth Filling
You’ve just had a filling placed and your mouth is still a little numb. What now? The hours following your procedure are crucial for allowing the filling to set and ensuring long-term success.
Wait at least 1 to 2 hours before eating
Local anaesthesia can cause temporary numbness, making it easy to accidentally bite your tongue or cheek. Eating too soon can lead to injury and discomfort. Waiting also gives the filling time to harden, especially in the case of composite materials.
Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth
In the first 24 hours, it’s best to eat soft, easy-to-chew foods like porridge, soup, and mashed potatoes. Chewing on the untreated side protects your new filling from pressure or dislodgement.
Avoid hot beverages until the numbness wears off completely
You may not realize if you’re burning your mouth while it’s numb. Plus, heat can sometimes cause mild irritation or discomfort on the newly filled tooth. Stick to lukewarm drinks for a few hours.
Dos and Don’ts After Getting a Filling
Proper care starts immediately after your procedure. Here’s what to do (and avoid) to protect your new restoration:
The Dos
Brush your teeth gently but thoroughly, twice a day
Brushing helps prevent plaque build-up around the filling, which could lead to new decay. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently to avoid irritating the area.
Floss daily, but carefully around the filled tooth
Flossing helps clean between teeth, where decay often begins. Be gentle and avoid snapping the floss down onto the filled tooth to prevent loosening the material.
Use fluoride toothpaste to protect against future decay
Fluoride strengthens your enamel, especially around the margins of the filling. This reduces the risk of decay forming under or beside the filling.
Follow any post-care advice from your dentist
Your dentist may give personalised instructions based on the type of filling you received and your dental history. These should always be followed closely.
How Long Do Tooth Fillings Last?
Wondering how long your filling will last? Here’s what you need to know.
Temporary Fillings
Designed to last a few weeks, typically placed before more permanent treatment (e.g. root canal follow-up or crown).
Permanent Fillings
- Composite (tooth-coloured): 5-10 years
- Porcelain: 15 years or more
Lifespan varies depending on the material, where the filling is located, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene.
Why Do Tooth Fillings Fall Out?
Fillings can loosen or fall out – sometimes suddenly. But it’s rarely random.
Common causes include:
Biting down on hard foods or objects
Ice, pens, unpopped popcorn kernels or nuts, these apply unnecessary pressure on the filling.
Tooth decay under the filling
If a filling is placed on top of a cavity, it can form if bacteria seep into the margins. This weakens the underlying structure and loosens the bond.
Wear and tear
Years of chewing, grinding, and exposure to hot or cold can erode both the tooth and the filling.
Poor bonding during placement
The filling may fall out if the tooth wasn’t properly prepared or isolated during the procedure.
Inconsistent oral hygiene
Without proper care for your new fillings, it can lead to plaque build-up, which in turn can lead to secondary decay and structural breakdown.
If your filling falls out, contact your dentist immediately to prevent infection or further damage to the tooth.
How to Know When It’s Time to Replace a Filling
Even the best fillings won’t last forever. But how do you know when it’s time for a replacement?
Look for these signs:
Sudden tooth sensitivity
If you felt any sharp, stinging pain when eating any hot, cold, or sweet foods could mean your filling is leaking or deteriorating.
Pain or pressure while chewing
Additionally, any might feel pain or irrigation may indicate a cracked filling or underlying decay.
Food getting trapped in the same area
If you find yourself picking food residue out of the same spot, it often means there’s a gap between your tooth and the filling.
Visible cracks, chips, or wear
Any signs of visual damage on the impacted tooth should always be evaluated, especially if the filling looks rough or worn down.
Discoloration or dark spots
Spot any black or dark spots around the filling? It might be the filling inside has leakage, decay, or staining – all signs it’s time for a replacement.
Regular dental check-ups will help your dentist monitor your fillings and catch issues early.
Why Choose Unique Dental Clinic for Tooth Filling?
At Unique Dental Clinic Kota Kinabalu, we combine expertise with modern technology to ensure safe and effective tooth filling treatments. Here’s why patients trust us:
Experienced Dentists
Skilled in managing complex cases with precision.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
Ensures accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment.
Personalized Care
Tailored treatment plans to suit individual needs.
Comfort-Focused Approach
Painless procedures in a relaxing environment
Ready to Brighten Your Smile?
If you’re ready to enhance your confidence with a dazzling smile, contact Unique Dental Clinic today to schedule your consultation. Let us help you achieve the smile of your dreams with safe, professional teeth whitening treatments in Kota Kinabalu.
Contact Us
📞 017-866 9188
📍 Blok G, Lot No. 8, Ground Floor, 88 Market Place Phase 10A, Lorong Pusat Komersil 88/1, Kepayan Ridge, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
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