Dental fillings are not enjoyable procedures, however, they are often necessary to restore teeth that are in bad shape. Thankfully, there are a few ways that patients can avoid having to get a dental filling altogether. 

Want to learn how to avoid getting a dental filling? This article outlines some important information that can be useful when trying to prevent the need for a dental filling. 

How to avoid getting a dental filling

Outlined below are 4 ways to avoid dental fillings. Keep reading to find out more!

1. Brush twice a day

The best way to avoid getting a dental filling is to brush at least twice a day. Dentists recommend brushing twice a day or after every meal. Food gets left behind on the teeth and in between them too. Over time, leftover food can turn into bacteria, which can attack the teeth. Once the bacteria embeds itself, the teeth become prone to cavities. Once a cavity is present, the patient is likely going to need a dental filling or another type of restoration. 

2. Floss at least once a day

While brushing is extremely important to avoid dental fillings, what a lot of people do not realize is that flossing is also just as important. There are certain areas within the mouth that a toothbrush may not be able to reach, which is why flossing is so necessary. The bristles on a toothbrush do not touch in between the teeth, which is where bacteria tend to build up.

Flossing gets in between those tight spaces and removes food, bacteria and plaque. When any of these things are left in between the teeth, there is a much higher chance that an infection will form. Infections lead to a need for a dental filling. 

3. Maintain routine dentist appointments

A very simple way to avoid the need for dental fillings is to maintain routine dentist appointments. A lot of people skip their annual visits to their dentist, thinking that their oral hygiene routine is good enough. However, this is not a good idea.

Dentists can detect things early on and treat them so that they do not become severe. Routine dentist appointments can also allow the patient to undergo preventive measures, such as fluoride treatment or a dental bonding procedure; both of which are able to help patients avoid dental fillings. 

4. Avoid excessive sugar consumption

Sugar is one of the main things that causes the need for dental fillings. Sugar clings on to the teeth and turns into plaque very quickly. Excessive consumption of it can cause severe cavities and decay, resulting in the need for dental fillings. It is best to limit sugar consumption, and when it is possible, it is important to immediately brush afterward.

Reach out today!

Dental fillings can easily be avoided by maintaining good oral hygiene and regularly seeing a dentist. Questions and concerns regarding dental fillings should be addressed by a dentist. Reach out today to get further help on avoiding dental fillings.

Request an appointment here: https://www.pbgdentist.com or call Holcroft Cosmetic & Family Dentistry at (561) 692-7449 for an appointment in our Jupiter office.