How to Care for Your Dental Filling: Tips for Long-Lasting Results

Dental fillings are commonly used to treat cavities and repair damaged teeth. While they effectively restore the function and appearance of your teeth, proper care is essential to ensure they last as long as possible.  

This guide provides valuable tips for maintaining dental fillings, whether you’ve recently had one or want to prolong the life of an existing one.

This blog will discuss how dental fillings usually last, the types available, tips for caring for them, alternatives to fillings, and when you should consider replacing them.

How Long Do Dental Fillings Usually Last?

The lifespan of a dental filling largely depends on the type of material used, how well you care for your teeth, and your eating habits. Dental fillings can last between 5 to 15 years, with some materials, such as gold or ceramic, potentially lasting longer with proper care. 

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene play crucial roles in the longevity of dental fillings.  

Let’s explore the different types of fillings and their durability.

Different Types of Fillings

Dental fillings come in various materials, each with advantages, longevity, and care requirements. The most common types include:  

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings are a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, and tin. These fillings are known for their strength and durability, lasting anywhere from 10 to 15 years, making them a popular choice for back teeth that endure heavy chewing.  

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings, or tooth-colored fillings, are made of resin and glass particles. They are highly favored for their aesthetic appeal, as they blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth. Composite resin fillings typically last 7 years, but their lifespan can vary depending on oral habits and maintenance.  

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are a premium option known for their durability and longevity. With proper care, gold fillings can last up to 20 years or more. While more expensive than other materials, gold fillings are highly resistant to wear and corrosion.  

Ceramic and Glass Ionomer Fillings

Ceramic fillings, made from porcelain, and glass ionomer fillings, made from a combination of glass and acrylic, are also common choices. Ceramic fillings are durable and aesthetically pleasing, lasting up to 15 years. Glass ionomer fillings are often used for cavities below the gum line and can release fluoride, which helps protect the teeth. However, they are not as durable as other options.

Tips For Caring for Dental Fillings

Taking care of your dental fillings is essential for maintaining their effectiveness and prolonging their life. Here are some key tips to ensure your fillings remain in good condition:

1. Maintain Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is critical in caring for your fillings and preventing future cavities. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth. 

Regular oral care will help prevent bacteria from damaging the area around your fillings and reduce the likelihood of needing additional dental work.

2. Avoid Hard Foods and Drinks

Hard foods, such as ice, hard candy, and nuts, can stress your fillings and cause them to crack or chip. Similarly, acidic and sugary drinks can erode the filling material over time. 

To protect your dental work, such as with Invisalign aligners, there are drinks and beverages to avoid or consume in moderation. 

3. Schedule Regular Check-Ups with Your Dentist

Routine dental check-ups are essential for maintaining the health of your teeth and fillings. During these visits, your dentist in Mckinney will examine your fillings to ensure they are in good condition and check for any signs of wear, damage, or decay. Early detection of any issues can help prevent the need for more extensive procedures in the future.

4. Go for Fluoride Oral Products

Using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash can strengthen your teeth and fillings by remineralizing tooth enamel. Fluoride helps protect the teeth from decay, especially around the edges of your fillings, which are vulnerable to bacteria buildup.

5. Be Mindful of Your Diet

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports the health of your teeth and fillings. Avoid excessive sugary snacks and drinks, as they promote tooth decay. Opt for foods that strengthen your teeth, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and crunchy fruits and vegetables, which help remove plaque.

6. No Teeth-Grinding

Teeth-grinding, or bruxism, can put excessive pressure on your fillings, causing them to wear down or break. If you grind your teeth, especially at night, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your dental fillings and prevent damage.

Alternatives to Dental Fillings

While dental fillings are a common solution for treating cavities, alternative treatments are available depending on the severity of tooth damage.  

Here are some common alternatives to dental fillings: 

1. Root Canal Therapy

A root canal may be necessary for severe decay that affects the pulp of the tooth. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth with a crown or filling to prevent further infection.-----------

2. Crowns or Veneers

In cases where a large portion of the tooth is damaged, a dental crown or veneer can be used to restore the tooth’s structure and appearance. Crowns and veneers cover the entire tooth, providing protection and durability. There are other benefits of veneers that you must consider with your dentist. 

3. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

Silver Diamine Fluoride is a treatment used to stop the progression of tooth decay. It is a non-invasive option that can be applied to areas of decay to halt its spread without the need for drilling or filling.

4. Thiourethane-Modified Composite

Thiourethane-modified composite is an advanced dental material used for fillings. It is more durable and fracture-resistant than traditional composite fillings, making it an excellent choice for patients seeking long-lasting, tooth-colored restorations.

When Should the Fillings Be Replaced?

Even with proper care, dental fillings don’t last forever. Over time, fillings can wear down, crack, or become loose, leading to further tooth decay or discomfort. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to replace your filling due to:  

• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods

• Pain or discomfort around the filled tooth

• A visible crack or hole in the filling

• Rough or uneven surfaces on the filling

• Food getting stuck in or around the filling

It’s important to visit your dentist in McKinney if you experience any of these symptoms. Regular dental check-ups will help catch these issues early and prevent more serious dental problems from developing.

Conclusion

Caring for your dental fillings is essential to ensure they last as long as possible. By following proper oral hygiene practices, avoiding hard foods, and scheduling regular visits with your dentist in McKinney, you can prolong the life of your fillings and maintain a healthy smile. 

Even with the best care, dental fillings may need to be replaced over time, so stay proactive about your dental health and contact the experts at Valley Creek for the best care. Proactive care is key to long-term success.

How is Oral Health Related to the Overall Health of the Body?

Taking care of one's teeth and gums is essential for more than having a perfect smile. It's also crucial for one's physical health. The state of one's mouth may dramatically affect the well-being of one's whole body, and vice versa for several systemic illnesses. To better understand the mouth-body link and the particular health aspects influenced by dental health, we shall delve further into this topic throughout this blog.

What's the Mouth-Body Connection?

A person's mouth is an entryway to major organs of the body, and the condition of the oral cavity has extensive implications for your general health. Not caring for your teeth and gums increases the risk of developing gum disease (periodontitis) and other dental illnesses. Inflammation throughout the body is linked to such dental concerns, which indicates a wide range of chronic diseases. It's also possible for oral bacteria to travel to other regions of the body through the circulatory system, where they may cause illnesses and irritation.

What factors contribute to poor oral health?

1. Diabetes

Diabetes and dental health are linked in both directions. Gum disease is more common among people with diabetes because of their weakened immune systems and inability to effectively regulate the sugar in their blood levels. On the other hand, untreated gum disease may increase the difficulty of controlling blood sugar levels, hurting the health of those with diabetes. Better glycemic control and fewer diabetes-related problems are possible when people with diabetes practice good dental hygiene.

2. Psychiatric Health

The condition of one's teeth and gums may have a significant impact on one's psychological as well as physical health. Social isolation, low self-esteem, and shame may result from issues related to oral health, such as tooth loss, painful gums, or worries about how one's smile looks. Researchers have observed links between gum disease and higher stress, sadness, and lower standards of life. If you take care of your teeth and gums by visiting a dentist in Mckinney, Tx, you'll boost more than just your confidence when you smile: your mental health will improve, too.

3. Pregnancy Complications

When a mother's health is good, so is her baby's. The same rule applies to oral health. Pregnant women not caring for their teeth and gums may lead to premature delivery, low birth weight, and hypertension. Pregnancy gingivitis is gum inflammation brought on by changes in hormones throughout pregnancy. Pregnant women and their unborn children benefit significantly from periodic dental exams, good oral hygiene, and swift resolution for any oral health concerns that may arise.

4. Cardiovascular

Numerous investigations have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart problems. Infections of the gums may spread germs to the circulatory system, which can then cause inflammation and raise the likelihood of cardiovascular disease. Prevention of these diseases and improvement in cardiovascular health may be aided by regular dental care and quick treatment of gum disease.

5. Respiratory Health

A person's ability to breathe correctly is affected by their dental health. Bacteria from the mouth may be breathed into the lungs, where they can cause infections or even pneumonia or exacerbate pre-existing respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). People may help prevent breathing problems and improve their ability by practicing excellent oral hygiene habits such as brushing, flossing, and consulting with the best dentist in Mckinney, TX.

6. Digestion

The digestion process is greatly aided by good oral health. For appropriate digestion, it is essential to have teeth and gums in good condition since this will allow for more efficient chewing. Problems with chewing caused by tooth loss or inadequately fitting dentures may cause digestive issues, poor nutrition absorption, and gastrointestinal distress. By caring for their teeth and gums, people may help their bodies absorb nourishment from what they eat and aid in digesting.

7. Bone Health

You must care for your teeth and gums to keep your jawbone strong and healthy. If you lose teeth and don't replace them, your jawbone will atrophy and collapse. In addition to increasing the likelihood of jaw fractures, this might cause noticeable facial alterations. Maintaining one's skeletal condition and overall well-being depends on one's ability to take care of their teeth and appropriate dental care when necessary.

8. Immune System

Maintaining good oral health may help the immune system do its job of warding off illness. If you don't care for your teeth and gums, dangerous bacteria will build up in your mouth, triggering irritation and weakening your immune system. A weakened immune system makes people more prone to illnesses and increases the time to recuperate from conditions like persistent gum disease. It has been shown that those who take care of their teeth and gums and have any problems fixed immediately have a stronger immune system and are less likely to become sick.

9. Cancer

The state of one's oral health is applicable as a barometer of one's general health and as a tool in the fight against and early diagnosis of certain cancers. Indications of oral cavity cancer, such as odd blisters, red or white spots, and chronic discomfort, may be detected at routine dental checkups. Research has also linked poor dental health to a higher likelihood of malignancies, including pancreas and gastrointestinal cancers. Although further studies are required to show a direct causal association, it is already clear that taking care of your mouth is crucial to detecting cancer early and reducing your risk of dying from it.

Conclusion

The necessity of addressing complete dental care is underscored by knowledge of the close connection connecting oral health and general well-being and fulfillment. The effects of ignoring oral health may extend well beyond the mouth and influence many other aspects of one's physical and emotional well-being. Secure a healthy future by prioritizing their oral health via frequent dental checkups at Mckinney pediatric dentist, brushing and flossing twice daily, and avoiding tobacco use.

7 Common Myths About Baby Teeth : Dentists in Mckinney, TX

Children's smiles undergo continuous development and change, just like everything else. There are numerous transformations, from the appearance of their first tooth to the emergence of their final permanent tooth. 

Due to the complexity of these changes, several misconceptions about children's teeth have arisen over time. As dedicated dentists in Mckinney, TX, at Valley Creek Dental Care, we aim to dispel these common myths about baby teeth and provide accurate information.

Let's begin!

Myth 1: Kids Are Capable Of Brushing Their Teeth

Children can't properly brush and floss their teeth effectively until they are much older. When five-year-olds brush their teeth, they can only clean their teeth surfaces. Parents should help them brush and floss for babies and toddlers. 

You can let preschoolers brush their teeth, but it's a good idea to check afterward to ensure they don't miss any spots. As professional dentists in Mckinney, TX, we suggest supervising your children's teeth, brushing and flossing until they turn seven or eight.

Myth 2: Kids Should Avoid Dental X-Rays Due To Safety Concerns

Getting dental X-rays is usually more helpful than risky. In our dental practice, we use advanced technology specifically designed for children. These digital X-rays expose kids to much less radiation than traditional X-rays. As the best Valley Creek Family Dentistry, We ensure proper shielding and only take X-rays when necessary rather than routinely. 

X-rays help dentists to see areas between teeth, inside the teeth, and below the gum line that are not visible to the naked eye. By detecting problems early, we can provide easier and less invasive treatments, keeping your child's smile healthy and bright.

Myth 3: My Child Can Visit The Same Valley Creek Family Dentistry as I do

While it's true that families can choose any dentist for their children, there are significant advantages to visiting a pediatric dentist. These dental specialists undergo two extra years of training in a residency program after dental school. During this time, they learn about the specific dental requirements of children and acquire behavioral techniques that help them feel more comfortable during dental visits. 

Therefore, this specialized training ensures that children receive the necessary care and have a positive experience at the dentist. While general dentistry practices may also treat kids effectively, pediatric dentists have expertise tailored to children's dental needs.

Myth 4: Babies Require Dental Visits After All Teeth Erupt

It's important to schedule your baby's first dental visit when they are one year old. This is because even with just one tooth, babies can develop cavities. During this visit, the expert dentists at Mckinney, TX, will ensure your baby's teeth and gums are healthy. They will help you establish a good oral care routine and check that your oral and dental development is progressing well. 

Moreover, starting dental visits early helps children become familiar with the dentist's office environment, the sounds, and the staff. It also allows them to build a positive relationship with the dentist and the dental team. This helps children feel more comfortable and makes future visits easier and stress-free for you and your child.

Myth 5: Mamelons On Teeth Are A Sign Of Dental Problems

One myth about mamelons on teeth is that they indicate dental problems or abnormalities. No, this is not the truth! Mamelons are naturally occurring on permanent incisor teeth and are characterized by small, rounded bumps or ridges on the edges of the teeth. However, some people mistakenly believe that mamelons indicate irregular tooth development or the need for orthodontic treatment.

In reality, mamelons, or ridges on teeth, are typically present on newly erupted adult incisor teeth and gradually wear down over time through normal biting and chewing. They are generally considered a normal variation of tooth anatomy and do not require any treatment or intervention.

Myth 6: Fluoride Overdose Prevents Cavities

Fluoride is vital for strengthening kids' teeth and preventing cavities. It can even reverse early tooth decay by repairing weak areas of the enamel, despite myths suggesting it's not good for baby teeth. Children receiving enough fluoride while developing their teeth benefit their permanent teeth in the long run. However, some kids don't get sufficient fluoride, especially if they drink only bottled water or live in areas without fluoridated tap water.

However, it's important to note that too much fluoride can also cause fluorosis, which can discolor permanent teeth. To ensure adequate fluoride intake, use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste for kids as soon as their first tooth appears. Use a pea-sized amount from ages three to six and ensure kids spit out excess toothpaste. 
Older kids only need a thin ribbon. Wait until around age six to introduce fluoride mouthwashes. During your child's visit to our Valley Creek Family Dentistry, experts will discuss the fluoride intake and determine if a fluoride treatment would be beneficial.

Myth 7: Kids Should Begin Flossing With Permanent Teeth

It is a myth that kids should only start flossing when their permanent teeth come in. Flossing is pertinent for kids to remove plaque. It is a sticky film that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. 

As baby teeth are temporary, they play a vital role, so keeping them healthy and free from cavities is crucial. When your baby's teeth touch each other, it's time to start flossing once daily to keep their teeth and gums in good shape.

Summary!

So, now you know the myths and facts about dental care for kids. For your kids, dental visits are essential. If your child hasn’t had their annual dental checkup yet, then make sure to schedule an appointment soon. 

Valley Creek Family Dentistry is dedicated to providing fuss-free oral care. We achieve it by performing only the necessary dental procedures, including pediatric dental treatment and cleaning.

Visit us today and let our skilled and caring dentists help you and your baby have a healthy smile.

Say Bye to Tooth Sensitivity: A McKinney Dentist’s Definitive Guide

It’s summertime, and we all crave a scoop of ice cream or a cold beverage. Oh, snap! Do you feel a jolt of sensation in your teeth if you try out any hot or cold drink? Well, then, you have sensitivity in the teeth. Everyday food and beverages trigger discomfort. It may be the sensation in all your teeth or just one particular tooth, but it can surely spoil your mood and ruin the taste of your food. 

Don’t feel like you are alone suffering from this problem. Statistics say, "1 person out of 3 suffers from sensitive teeth.” If you are facing this issue, it’s time to get a dentist appointment and visit the Doc. To find a suitable dentist near you, all you have to do is search for the dentist in your area. Try a Google search with “dentist in Mckinney, tx or MckinneyDentist”.

Teeth Sensitivity: Know what your Dentist in Mckinney, TX has to say

Teeth sensitivity is feeling a sense of pain every time you brush your teeth, drink hot or cold water/beverages, or eat hot or cold food. It is the sharp sensation of pain that you feel every time you do the above activities. 

Having sensitive teeth can lead to an unpleasant feeling for a while, or one can keep experiencing it for a few hours. It can also indicate early warning signs for serious dental problems.

It is called dentine hypersensitivity if you experience sensitivity in your teeth while having hot food/beverage. If you share the same feeling while having something cold, it is called Dentine Exposure. 

How does it occur?

Teeth sensitivity occurs when the dentin( underlying layer of the teeth) is exposed. This has a high chance of occurring when your gums loosen up, and the roots of your teeth are exposed to the food/beverage. 

• Teeth Grinding: Clenching or Grinding of your teeth may open up the enamel and expose the dentin. So avoid teeth grinding in case you are doing so. 

• Gum Recession: Gum recession means gum being torn down and exposing the underneath dentin. It is a predisposed disease that can be genetically present in you or grows due to weak gums.

• Cracked teeth: Teeth that are cracked give space for bacteria to enter from the plaque to the pulp, causing inflammation.

• Teeth whitening products: When you use chemically filled teeth, whitening products affect the health of your teeth. If you wish to whiten your teeth consult a dentist near you by searching for a dentist in McKinney, tx, or emergency dentistry. 

Brushing too hard-When you brush your teeth too hard, the bristles of your brush can tear down the enamel—tearing of enamel results in dentin exposure. So, if you brush your teeth too hard, stop. Be gentle with your teeth like you are gentle with all the other parts of your body. 

Which age group does it impact the most?

Do you have questions like, is teeth sensitivity age group specific, or can it happen to anyone? Well, let’s clear your doubts about that. Teeth sensitivity is highest between the age of 25-30. Regardless, the consumption of junk food and a lot of iced beverages has started impacting the younger crowd. 

Improper oral care or excessive it, as we saw above, brushing excessively, consuming acidic food or using mouthwashes that contain acids can worsen tooth sensitivity. So although the stats say that the age group of 25-30 is most likely to be affected by toothache, it can also impact others. 

How to Ease Sensitivity In Teeth: 

Teeth sensitivity can be painful. So here’s what can help you ease sensitivity in teeth.

Eat Less Acidic Food: 

Being careful about what you eat can help you avoid teeth sensitivity. Avoiding/less consumption of acidic food like lemon, tomatoes, and citrus fruits can help you ease teeth sensitivity. 

Maintaining oral hygiene: 

Using toothpaste that is specially made for sensitive teeth will help you decrease sensitivity. One should continue brushing and flossing to keep the mouth and teeth clean. 

Using a toothbrush with soft bristles:

Using a toothbrush with soft bristles will not cause any harm to your teeth. It will cause less irritation to your gums which occurs because of toothbrush abrasion. 

Avoid Teeth Grinding:

Don’t grind your teeth because it affects your teeth’ health. If you can’t avoid the habit, you must use a mouthguard at night. 

Dental Check-Ups: 

Regular dental checkups are a must. Even though you have no problem with your teeth or aches, a routine dental checkup will keep you updated about your tooth health.

Wrapping Up, 

Sensitivity is a significant concern. All the above tips are helpful if you follow them religiously. Regular dental checkups will help you check your teeth' health. Other issues like Invisalign on teeth could be cured by searching emergency dentistry or mckinney dentistry and making an appointment to visit the dentist.

Maintain Oral Health like a Pro: A Guide By Mckinney, Tx Dentist

We often ignore our teeth' health, mistaking them to be low-maintenance. However, it only comes to our attention when we have a toothache, cavities, yellow teeth, or sensitivity in our teeth. Well, it shouldn't be like that. A proper teeth care routine should be followed to avoid cavities and gum problems. You can also get your regular dental checkup by searching for a good dentist nearby, e.g., McKinney, tx dentist.

This blog elaborates on teeth problems and how to properly care for your teeth. So if you want to avoid cavities and gum problems, this blog is a good read. 

Dentist’s Advice On How To Fight Against Cavity And Gum Problems:

Cavities are the darkened or brown development on the surface of your teeth. They make the teeth permanently damaged as active bacteria have taken over due to the improper care of your teeth, consumption of sugary beverages, or food of frequent snacking. A cavity occurs when the mouth bacteria turn the sugar into acid and decay your tooth, causing a hole in your teeth. It is common but harmful to our teeth and can occur at all ages. Yes, this means that getting thoroughly examined by trusted pediatric dentistry in McKinney is a must for the little ones as well!

Gum problems can occur when the cavity in your mouth starts attacking the gums, weakening them. Eventually, it loosens the teeth and can result in teeth extraction. Well, whatever may be the reason for teeth cavity and gum problems, there are a few ways to prevent it and treat it if it's already occurred. 

How To Get Rid Of Plaque: 

Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once daily should be practiced. It helps with keeping your teeth clean and the bacteria away and helps with the problem of bad breath. 

Avoid Drinking Sugary Food & Beverages:

Consumption of colas and sweets harms your health, especially your teeth health. If you have a sweet tooth, limiting sugar content may help. If you can’t avoid sugar altogether, you can consume it with other food items during meals. It lessens the chances of plaque. 

Drinking Water After Meals:

Water helps clean the remnants of food left in your mouth after meals. It helps clean the bacteria in your mouth and swallow the food particles stuck in your teeth. Drinking water is good for your physical health as well as your teeth health. So drink more water to keep your mouth and gut clean.

Use Toothpaste Made For Sensitive Teeth:

A significant part of teeth cleansing is using the right toothpaste. If you have sensitive teeth or aches in your teeth, then using toothpaste specially curated for sharp teeth is recommended. Toothpaste made for sensitive teeth has fluoride in it. Check the ingredients of your toothpaste and see whether it has fluoride. If not, purchase a better toothpaste that helps you keep your teeth clean and healthy. 

Cavity may seem like a minor issue, but it is painful and can destroy your teeth to a great extent. Taking the above precautions is necessary to avoid tooth pain and cavities. However, if you already have plaque, it’s about time that you went to see whitening dentists in McKinney, TX. 

How Does Brushing Help?

Brushing your teeth helps reduce the chances of plaque or gum diseases. Below are the five important reasons for brushing your teeth:

• Brushing your teeth helps clean dirty teeth and remove leftover food from your teeth which causes decay. 

• It helps clean your mouth and keeps the bacteria away

• It enables you to get rid of the bad breath 

• It helps prevent plaque and gum diseases

• Poor oral health leads to dementia. Brushing teeth regularly helps prevent dementia. 

Brushing your teeth twice a day is good for your oral health. Brushing in the morning as you wake up to kill the germs developed in your mouth overnight and then in the night before you sleep to avoid sleeping with the bits and pieces of your food left in your mouth after dinner. 

When should you visit your dentist? 

Visiting a dentist regularly is good for your teeth’ health. However, in case of a cavity, if you observe the below symptoms, do visit a dentist immediately.

• If you are facing toothache or spontaneous ache, it is a sign of a cavity.

• If you observe darkened teeth, it is an indication of a cavity.

• If you have excess pain while chewing a food item, it is a symptom of cavities.

• It increases teeth sensitivity by eating anything hot or cold.

• Holes in your teeth. 

If you observe the above signs, it is highly recommended to visit your nearest McKinney, tx dentist at the earliest. They can perform a root canal on the aching tooth to ease your pain and help you get relief from plaque.

Takeaway:

Oral health is equally important as physical health. It is a part of your body and should not be avoided. You should take the necessary precautions to prevent gum diseases and cavities. Strong oral health helps you fight against germs and makes your teeth healthier and stronger. Visiting a dentist for regular checkups should also be considered. You can find a good dentist by searching for a dentist in your location for eg: McKinney dentist. Hope this blog helps you learn about teeth health and how to prevent and fight cavities and gum diseases so that you can take good care of your teeth.