A dental filling is one of the most common dental procedures. In fact, the average American has at least three dental fillings. They can treat damage caused by tooth decay. They essentially repair the damage to protect your tooth and restore its natural shape and function. Tooth decay and yellow teeth do not always coincide, but both can occur due to the impact of harmful bacteria on your teeth. If you are unhappy with the color of your teeth you may wonder, will teeth whitening work with dental fillings? Below you will find helpful information on how to ensure your smile is bright and your oral hygiene is in good shape.
Will Teeth Whitening Work With Dental Fillings?
Teeth whitening treatment uses peroxide compounds to brighten your smile. The most common are hydrogen and carbamide peroxide. These peroxides are put directly on your enamel (the outermost layer of your teeth) to whiten your teeth. Surface stains are found on your tooth’s enamel. The peroxides used in tooth whitening treatments essentially break up those stains, which results in a whiter and brighter smile.
Fillings do not respond to tooth whitening treatments. Dental fillings are often made of composite resin materials. Composite resin materials do not respond to peroxide in the same way that your natural teeth do. In fact, dental fillings will stay the same color no matter what you do.
Planning Your Teeth Whitening Treatment
If you need to get a dental filling but also want to whiten your teeth, it’s important to plan the process. The benefit of dental fillings is that your dentist will shade match the filling to your teeth. If you want to get your teeth whitened, it’s best to do it before you get your filling. Also, if you whiten your teeth before your dental filling, the dentist can shade match your filling to the color of your whitened teeth. If you want to continue whitening your teeth after your dental filling, the color will match your filling without issue.
Caring for Your Teeth
While whitening treatments can help brighten your smile, a healthy oral hygiene routine can ensure your oral health stays in good shape. It is necessary to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush for two minutes. It is also recommended to floss at least once a day and use mouthwash or rinse with water if you cannot brush your teeth after you eat. Dental professionals recommend visiting the dentist at least every six months. You may need to visit more often if you have any unique or ongoing dental issues.
Your diet can also have an impact on your oral hygiene, in addition to the color of your teeth. Certain foods and drinks can stain your teeth and increase your risk of tooth decay. Pastries, candies, sodas, juices and other processed foods can harm your oral health and stain your teeth. Focus on a healthy diet and eat teeth-staining foods in moderation. Rinse your mouth with water and brush your teeth 30 minutes after you eat any teeth-staining foods or drinks.
Dentist in Hollywood
If you suffer from tooth decay and need dental fillings in Hollywood, contact TruGLO Modern Dental. They are skilled in restorative dentistry and can treat your natural teeth impacted by tooth decay. The team is also skilled in cosmetic dentistry treatments, including teeth whitening. If you need to get a filling and would also like to get your teeth whitened, let Dr. Kalasho know as she can plan your treatments accordingly. Dr. Kalsho and her team have helped countless patients maintain their oral health and achieve their desired dental aesthetic. Contact the top dentist in Hollywood today for an appointment!