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Protecting Your Investment in a Healthier Smile
If you’ve chosen biomimetic restorations to repair and protect your teeth, you’ve already taken a major step toward a stronger, longer-lasting smile. But knowing how to care for biomimetic restorations is just as important as getting them in the first place. Proper maintenance helps them stay strong, functional, and beautiful for decades — and the good news is that it’s simple to do.
At Kootenai Family Dentistry in Libby, MT, Dr. Kalene Colwell and our team want your restorations to serve you for as long as possible. With the right habits and a few simple steps, you can make sure they do. This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from daily care routines to long-term maintenance — so you can keep your restored teeth healthy and strong for years to come.
Why Caring for Biomimetic Restorations Matters
Biomimetic restorations are more durable than traditional fillings and crowns, often lasting 15 to 20 years or more. But like any dental work, they can fail prematurely if they’re not properly cared for. Neglecting your oral hygiene or skipping dental visits can lead to problems like:
- Decay around the edges of the restoration
- Gum disease that threatens the tooth structure
- Chips, cracks, or wear from biting on hard objects
- Loosening or failure of the restoration
The good news is that preventing these issues is simple — and most of it comes down to the same good habits that protect your natural teeth.
Step-by-Step Daily Care Routine
The best way to care for biomimetic restorations is to follow a consistent, thorough daily oral care routine. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Brush Twice a Day — The Right Way
Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Gentle brushing removes plaque and prevents decay from forming around your restoration.
Pro Tip: Use small, circular motions and tilt your brush at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can wear down both tooth enamel and restoration materials.
2. Floss Daily to Clean Between Teeth
Even the most precise biomimetic restoration can’t protect against decay if bacteria collect between your teeth. Flossing once a day removes plaque and food particles that brushing alone can’t reach.
If traditional floss is tricky for you, try floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser — all of which are effective at keeping restoration edges clean and healthy.
3. Rinse with a Gentle Mouthwash
A fluoride or antibacterial mouthwash can add an extra layer of protection against decay and gum disease. Swish for 30 seconds after brushing and flossing to kill bacteria and strengthen the surrounding tooth structure.
Avoid alcohol-based rinses, which can dry out your mouth and potentially affect bonding materials over time.
The Role of Diet in Restoration Health
What you eat and drink has a big impact on how long your biomimetic restorations last. A tooth-friendly diet supports strong enamel, healthy gums, and durable restorations.
Eat More of These:
- Calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified plant milks
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots, which naturally clean your teeth
- Water to rinse away food particles and bacteria
Limit These:
- Sticky candies and sweets that cling to restoration surfaces
- Acidic drinks like soda and citrus juices, which erode enamel and restoration margins
- Hard foods like ice or unpopped popcorn kernels that can cause cracks or chips
Do’s and Don’ts: Care for Biomimetic Restorations
Here’s a quick reference guide to help you keep your restorations in top shape:
Do:
- Brush gently but thoroughly twice a day.
- Floss daily, especially around restoration edges.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.
- Call your dentist if you notice sensitivity or changes.
Don’t:
- Use your teeth as tools (to open bottles, tear packages, etc.).
- Chew on pens, ice, or other hard objects.
- Skip dental visits — small problems can become expensive repairs.
- Ignore sensitivity, pain, or chips — they often signal early issues.
- Smoke or use tobacco, which can stain restorations and harm gum health.
The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
Even with great home care, regular visits to Kootenai Family Dentistry are essential for long-term success. Professional cleanings remove hardened plaque (tartar) that brushing can’t reach, and routine exams allow Dr. Kalene Colwell to check for early signs of wear, decay, or bonding issues.
We typically recommend visits every six months, but some patients may need more frequent appointments if they’re at higher risk for dental problems.
During your checkups, we will:
- Inspect the integrity of your restorations
- Check for gum inflammation or decay around the edges
- Polish and clean surfaces to prevent staining
- Offer personalized care tips based on your needs
How to Extend the Lifespan of Biomimetic Restorations
If you want your restorations to last for decades, a few extra steps can go a long way:
1. Protect Against Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding puts tremendous stress on both natural teeth and restorations. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, talk to us about a custom night guard. It’s a small investment that can prevent major damage.
2. Address Dental Problems Early
If you notice any changes — like increased sensitivity, chips, or rough edges — schedule a visit right away. Early repairs are usually quick and inexpensive, while waiting too long can lead to more complex and costly treatments.
3. Avoid DIY Whitening
Over-the-counter whitening products can sometimes damage restoration surfaces. Always talk to Dr. Kalene Colwell before starting any whitening treatment to make sure it’s safe for your dental work.
4. Maintain Overall Oral Health
Healthy gums and supporting bone structure are essential for restoration success. Brushing your gums, cleaning your tongue, and managing conditions like dry mouth all support the longevity of your dental work.
Common Questions About Caring for Biomimetic Restorations
Q: Do biomimetic restorations require special toothpaste?
A: No — any fluoride toothpaste is fine. Just avoid abrasive “whitening” pastes that could scratch the restoration surface.
Q: Can biomimetic restorations stain over time?
A: They are highly stain-resistant, but frequent exposure to coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco can cause discoloration. Professional cleanings help maintain their appearance.
Q: What if I feel sensitivity around my restoration?
A: Mild sensitivity after treatment is normal, but persistent sensitivity could indicate a small gap or early decay. Contact us for an evaluation.
Q: How often do biomimetic restorations need to be replaced?
A: With proper care, many last 15 to 20 years or more. Good oral hygiene and regular checkups are key to reaching — or exceeding — that lifespan.
Related Articles for Biomimetic Dentistry:
- How Long Do Biomimetic Restorations Last?
- Are Biomimetic Restorations Worth the Cost?
- 6 Steps to Expect During a Biomimetic Dental Treatment
- Biomimetic Dentistry vs. Traditional Restorations
- Root Canal Alternatives with Biomimetic Dentistry
- Biomimetic Dentistry: 5 Natural and Restoring Benefits
A Healthier Smile That Lasts
Choosing biomimetic restorations is an investment in your long-term oral health — and with the right care, that investment pays off for decades. By brushing, flossing, watching your diet, and seeing Dr. Kalene Colwell regularly, you can protect your restorations and keep your smile strong, healthy, and beautiful for years to come.
If you have questions about care for biomimetic restorations or want to schedule a preventive checkup, contact Kootenai Family Dentistry in Libby, MT today. Our team is here to help you get the most out of your treatment and enjoy a lifetime of confident smiles.
