How long does an Invisalign treatment take?

An Invisalign treatment can take anywhere between 6 months to 3 years. It will depend on your existing teeth positioning and how far they need to move. Find out how long during your appointment with our orthodontist.

Will I need to wear retainers after Invisalign treatment?

Yes. It’s crucial to your treatment you’ll need to wear a retainer after Invisalign treatment until your orthodontic tells you otherwise.

How long do the aligners have to be in my mouth?

You need to wear your Invisalign aligners for 22 hours a day for perfect results. After that, patients repeat this until completion (between 6 months and 3 years). After that, your Invisalign dentist will be able to explain the treatment in detail.

Does Invisalign hurt?

Any pressure or movement on your teeth may cause discomfort. However, this is uncommon. And it mainly occurs on the first day of wearing a new Invisalign. Australia puts high importance on oral health and comfort. Raise ongoing pain or discomfort with your Invisalign provider.

How much does Invisalign cost compared to braces?

Knowing how much is Invisalign and braces is vital. We can explain the costs of both at our first meeting. Invisalign, braces and other orthodontic treatments have pros and cons. And the value of each is subjective. If you would like to know your options, we can help.

How do I choose the right Invisalign provider?

When searching for 'Invisalign near me', always read and follow what Invisalign reviews say. There you'll see who takes civic gentle dental care seriously. And check out the gallery of each Invisalign provider.

How do I know if an Invisalign treatment is right for me?

In the Invisalign vs braces debate, many things are considered. There's the Invisalign price, treatment time and look. Your dental needs are unique. And our Invisalign dentists can provide expert recommendations.

Dental Fillings After Care Guide

Did you just get a dental filling? Getting a dental filling doesn't mean that your time in the dentist's chair is done. In fact, caring for your teeth after getting fillings is an important component of making sure they stay healthy.

For this reason, we created this guide to make caring for your recently filled cavities simpler for you. At Gorgeous Smiles, we have put together the information you need to support your recovery and ongoing oral health after a filling.

We'll explore why aftercare is essential and how to take care of your teeth after a filling treatment. We'll also discuss the most important steps you need to follow for proper dental filling aftercare.

Why Is After Care Important After a Dental Filling Procedure?

Aftercare is crucial following a dental filling procedure for several reasons. Firstly, it helps ensure that your filling settles correctly into your tooth structure. A well-maintained filling can last for many years.

Secondly, effective aftercare can minimise potential discomfort or sensitivity that sometimes occurs post-procedure. Lastly, aftercare supports your oral hygiene, reducing the risk of other dental issues arising.

A filling repairs an existing issue, but good oral health practices are necessary to reduce the risk of future problems and support the longevity of the filling.

How Do You Take Care of Your Teeth After a Dental Filling?

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

Avoid Eating or Drinking: For a few hours after the procedure, avoid hot and cold foods to prevent sensitivity and discomfort.
Don't Chew on the Filled Tooth: To allow the filling to set properly, avoid chewing on the filled tooth until the numbness from the anaesthesia has completely worn off.
Mild Pain Management: You may experience pain or pressure sensitivity in the filled tooth. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this discomfort.
Rinse with Salt Water: After the procedure, rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This can help reduce swelling and reduce the risk of infection.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Avoid sticky and hard foods for a few days after the procedure, as they may cause the filling to come loose or damage the treated tooth. Soft foods like mashed potatoes, pasta, or yoghurt are good options during this period.

Longer-Term Care

Regular Dental Visits: Keep up with your usual dental check-ups. Regular visits allow your dentist to monitor your filling and check that it's still functioning as it should.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush at least twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. A consistent hygiene routine supports the longevity of your filling and reduces the risk of new cavities.
Mindful Eating: Continue to limit hard and sticky foods that can dislodge or damage fillings. Frequent consumption of sugary drinks and snacks can lead to tooth decay around and under the filling.
Use a Mouthguard if Needed: If you grind your teeth at night, consider using a night guard. Teeth grinding can cause fillings to wear away, crack, or dislodge.
Apply Desensitising Toothpaste if Necessary: If your filled tooth remains sensitive for a longer period, using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help. However, if sensitivity persists, visit your dentist for a check-up.

Important Steps You Need to Take to Care for Your Dental Fillings

Daily Brushing and Flossing: Brush and floss with fluoride toothpaste every day. This is essential for maintaining dental fillings and overall oral health.
Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash: Using an antiseptic mouthwash daily can help reduce bacteria in the mouth, lowering the risk of cavities forming near the filling.
Eat a Tooth-Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals and low in sugary drinks supports tooth strength and reduces the risk of filling damage.
Consider Fluoride Treatments: Ask your dentist about fluoride treatments. Fluoride can strengthen your teeth and support the longevity of your fillings.
Replace Worn-Out Fillings: Dental fillings don't last forever. If you notice a filling is worn out or damaged, a replacement filling is necessary to reduce the risk of further damage to your tooth.
For full information about treatment risks, please visit our treatment risks page: https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/treatment-risks/

FAQs

Can I Brush My Teeth After a Filling?

Yes, you can and should brush your teeth after getting a filling, but with some precautions. Wait until the numbness from the anaesthesia has completely worn off so that you don't accidentally hurt your mouth. Be gentle when you brush near the filled area, as your gums might be tender.

How Long Does Sensitivity Last After a Filling?

Sensitivity after a dental filling varies for each individual. Typically, it subsides within approximately one to two weeks. However, if sensitivity persists beyond this period, consult with your dentist. Extended sensitivity may indicate a filling issue or another dental condition that requires attention. Your dentist can provide a thorough examination or adjustment to the filling if necessary.

Why Does My Filled Tooth Still Hurt?

Experiencing some discomfort in a filled tooth is not uncommon, particularly when biting or consuming solid foods. There are several possible causes. Your filling might be too high or uneven, which can affect your bite and cause pain. The filled tooth might have been very deep, close to the nerve, causing lingering discomfort. The filling material itself can sometimes cause sensitivity. Discuss any persistent pain with your dentist, as they can make adjustments or provide further treatment if necessary.

Are There Different Types of Fillings?

Yes, there are several types of fillings. The main types are silver amalgam and tooth-coloured composite fillings. Composite fillings match the colour of your teeth. They bond to the tooth, providing support and resistance to breakage. Silver amalgam fillings are less expensive and more durable than composite in some situations. They are typically used for back teeth where visibility is less of a concern. Both types have advantages and limitations, and your dentist can help you choose the most suitable option based on your needs and the location and extent of the decay.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining the condition of your dental fillings is important for both your oral and general health. By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of complications and support the longevity of your fillings. Your dentist is your partner in oral health, so don't hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns or questions.

For full information about treatment risks, please visit: https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/treatment-risks/