Can I get my teeth cleaned after having a dental filling?

Generally speaking, whether dental cleaning is suitable after a filling depends on the condition of the filling material and the tooth. If the filling is stable, without looseness or damage, routine dental cleaning is usually acceptable. However, if the filling is loose, has poorly sealed edges, or shows signs of damage, dental cleaning should be postponed until the filling issue is addressed. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If the filling material is securely bonded, with no gaps at the margins, and there is no significant tooth sensitivity or pain, dental cleaning can proceed normally. Inform your dentist about the filled area beforehand; they will adjust the instrument intensity, avoid the filled region, or perform gentle procedures to prevent damaging the material, while effectively removing plaque and tartar from other areas of the teeth.

If the filling material is loose or partially detached, or if decay or damage exists around the filling's edges, dental cleaning should be temporarily avoided. The ultrasonic vibrations used during cleaning may cause further dislodgement of the loose material or expose more damaged areas, worsening the dental problem. In such cases, you should first visit a dental clinic to have the tooth refilled. Once the new filling is stable, dental cleaning can then be safely performed.

To maintain the health of a filled tooth, good daily oral hygiene is essential—brush teeth twice daily, use dental floss, and avoid chewing hard objects with the filled tooth to prevent material damage. Regular dental check-ups are also recommended to detect and repair any issues with the filling material early.