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Do's and Don'ts After Composite Filling

Do's and Don'ts After Composite Filling

Posted on 01/15/2026

When you need a filling that won't detract from your teeth's natural appearance, West Gate Dental offers composite fillings that match the shade of the existing tooth. Our team uses a special mixture of resin and other elements to repair your tooth and give you a bright, attractive smile. Before you leave your cosmetic dentist in Lincoln, we'll answer your questions, such as "Can you eat after a filling?" and give you a list of do's and don'ts that help you care for your filling while you recover.


Do Brush and Floss Regularly

Fillings are made of strong material, but they're not indestructible. Once you get dental fillings in Lincoln, NE, it's important to keep brushing with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Afterward, make sure you floss your teeth or use a Waterpik. This removes particles and reduces the risk of cavities and plaque build-up.


Do Drink Water

Staying hydrated keeps your teeth healthy and may help you recover faster. When you're craving soda, wine, or tea, try reaching for bottled water instead. You can also rinse out your mouth with water after meals if you can't brush your teeth right away.


Do Take Pain Relievers

Some discomfort after your filling is normal. If you experience pain or sensitivity, we recommend taking over-the-counter medication and rinsing your mouth with salt water. The pain should recede within a few days.

However, if the discomfort doesn't go away or you experience severe pain, call your cosmetic dentist in Lincoln immediately. This might be a sign of an infection or a damaged filling.


Don't Eat Hard Foods

Many patients ask, "Can you eat after a filling?" While you can eat after a filling, we recommend sticking to soft foods, such as smoothies, pudding, yogurt, jelly, and mashed potatoes. Foods you should avoid during recovery include:

  • Nuts
  • Pretzels
  • Popcorn kernels
  • Hard candy
  • Sugary drinks
  • Red wine

These snacks and drinks could damage your teeth, stain the surface, or dislodge your filling. As you heal, you can start reintroducing them to your diet, but make sure you chew carefully and rinse your mouth after drinking teeth-staining beverages.


Don't Grind Your Teeth

Grinding your teeth may damage the filling and wear down the rest of your teeth. For patients who tend to grind their teeth at night, we suggest wearing a mouth guard. If you don't have a mouth guard at home, let us know so that we can make arrangements.


Don't Skip Your Follow-Up Appointments

Cleanings and follow-up appointments give us the chance to check your filling and keep your teeth sealed and protected. As a result, you'll reduce the chances of needing another filling in the future.


Talk to a Cosmetic Dentist in Lincoln

If you're looking for dental fillings in Lincoln, NE, reach out to West Gate Dental to schedule your appointment. We'll evaluate your teeth and come up with a treatment plan that makes you feel confident about your smile again.