Imagine the thrill of finally revealing a brand-new smile. Maybe a chipped tooth had been hiding your confidence for years, or perhaps a missing tooth had made chewing a chore. Whatever the reason, your dental restoration has transformed your smile, boosting your self-esteem and making you feel ready to take on the world. But just like a beautiful garden needs regular care to thrive, your restored smile requires dedication to maintain its brilliance and function.
Modern dentistry offers a variety of restoration options, from fillings and crowns to bridges and implants. Each procedure addresses a specific dental concern, restoring your smile’s aesthetics and functionality. The good news is that with proper care, your dental restorations can last for many years, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of your transformed smile for a long time. Let’s explore some strategies to make sure your restored teeth stay healthy and continue to light up your smile!
Brushing and Flossing: The Foundation of a Lasting Smile
Just because your restored teeth aren’t your natural ones doesn’t mean they deserve any less attention! In fact, maintaining a meticulous oral hygiene routine is even more crucial for these teeth. Plaque and tartar buildup can still occur around restorations, leading to decay and potentially compromising the longevity of the restoration itself.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you clean your new smile:
1. Invest in a soft-bristled toothbrush. Harsh bristles can cause damage to the surface of new restorations, cause loss of gum tissue due to trauma that exposes darker root surfaces, and even cause erosion of the root surface itself. You MUST use soft toothbrush bristles.
2. Flossing is absolutely mandatory! The tooth structure that supports and surrounds new fillings or crowns can still get cavities if not kept very clean! New cavities means starting over. So make sure to brush at least 1-2 times per day. Flossing also cleans out some of the pocket in-between the teeth, keeping the gum tissue healthier.
3. Floss BEFORE you brush. The food and bacterial debris lodged between your teeth will prevent Fluoride from flowing in and helping the teeth when you are brushing. So you need to floss that debris out FIRST, then brush with a fluoride containing toothpaste.
4. Brush twice a day for at least two minutes using a gentle, circular motion and tilting the toothbrush 45 degrees along your gums. This ensures you’re cleaning both the surface of the tooth and the area where the restoration meets the gum tissue. Don’t forget the chewing surfaces. Give them a good scrub, too!
Dietary Strategies for Smile Longevity
The old adage, “You are what you eat,” certainly rings true when it comes to your dental health. Just like a car needs the right fuel to run smoothly, your restored smile thrives on a diet that nourishes your teeth and gums.
Foods to embrace include:
1. Nature’s Powerhouse: Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and minerals that contribute to healthy teeth and gums. Think crunchy apples, leafy greens, and colorful bell peppers. Not only are they delicious, but they also help stimulate saliva production, which naturally cleanses your mouth.
2. Calcium Champions: Dairy products like cheese and yogurt are excellent sources of calcium, a vital mineral for maintaining strong tooth structure. Strong teeth are less susceptible to chipping or cracking, which can compromise your restorations' integrity.
Foods to limit include:
1. Sugar Rush: We all know sugar isn’t the best for our overall health, and the same goes for our teeth. Sugary foods and beverages form an acidic environment in your mouth, weakening tooth enamel and restorations over time. Choose water over sugary drinks whenever possible, and limit sugary treats to occasional indulgences.
2. Soda/Pop drinks : These are especially harmful for your teeth, as all the dark sodas combine both a LOT of sugar and phosphoric acid. This dramatically accelerates the attack on your teeth.
3. Acid Attack: While some fruits are fantastic for your smile, others have a higher acidic content. While not entirely off-limits, be mindful of fruits like citrus (grapefruits, oranges) and berries. These can erode tooth enamel, so consider rinsing your mouth with water after consuming them.
4. Hard and Sticky Treats: We all have a sweet tooth, but choosing treats wisely is important when you have dental restorations. Hard candies and nuts can chip or crack fillings and crowns. Similarly, sticky candies like caramels can dislodge them entirely. Enjoy these treats in moderation, and be extra gentle when chewing them.
By making smart dietary choices that prioritize healthy foods and limit sugary culprits, you’ll fuel your smile for long-lasting success! In the next section, we’ll explore some lifestyle habits that can also impact the longevity of your restored teeth.
Lifestyle Habits for a Happy Smile
Your daily habits play a big role in the health and longevity of your restored teeth.
Here are some key lifestyle considerations to keep your smile bright:
1. Tame the GRIND with a night guard: Do you wake up with a sore jaw or find yourself unconsciously clenching your teeth throughout the day? You might be grinding your teeth, a habit known as bruxism. Bruxism exerts excessive pressure on your teeth, potentially damaging restorations.
Most, if not ALL people clench and grind when under stress. Often people may be clenching so much that damage is occurring to their teeth WITHOUT being aware of it, because they are asleep while it is happening! Ask your dentist to evaluate your teeth for signs of clenching and grinding. If you show signs, then your dentist can make a hard acrylic night appliance that can protect your teeth from this type of damage.
2. Smoking Cessation for a Sparkling Smile: Smoking is a major risk factor for many health problems and negatively impacts oral health. Smoking weakens the gum tissue, which can lead to gum disease. Gum disease can affect the bone supporting your teeth, potentially leading to loose teeth or even restoration failure. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your overall and oral health.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. By being mindful of these lifestyle habits and discussing any concerns with your dentist, you can minimize the risk of damaging your restored teeth.
Partnering with Your Dentist for Long-Term Success
Your dentist is your partner in maintaining a healthy smile, especially when you have dental restorations. Scheduling regular dental checkups, typically twice a year, is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and restorations. During these visits, your dentist can thoroughly examine your teeth and restorations, looking for any signs of wear, decay, or potential issues. Early detection is key! By identifying problems early, your dentist can intervene with minimal treatment to prevent more extensive procedures down the line.
Even the most dedicated brushing and flossing can’t remove all plaque buildup, especially around restorations. Professional dental cleanings involve a thorough cleaning by a hygienist, removing hardened plaque and tartar that can contribute to gum disease and ultimately impact the longevity of your restorations.
After any dental restoration procedure, your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions. These may include dietary restrictions (avoiding hard or sticky foods), pain management tips, and proper cleaning techniques. Following these instructions is essential for optimal healing and ensuring the long-term success of your restoration.
Closing Thoughts
With a commitment to a consistent oral hygiene routine, mindful dietary choices, healthy lifestyle habits, and a strong partnership with your dentist, you can ensure your restored teeth continue to function beautifully and contribute to your confident smile for years to come. Remember, a radiant smile is an investment in your overall health and well-being, so take steps today to ensure its longevity!