Getting a dental filling is a common procedure to treat cavities and restore the health of your teeth. However, it’s not unusual to experience some discomfort or pain after the procedure. Most of the time, this sensitivity is normal and will resolve within a few days or weeks. A person should call their dentist right away if they have extreme pain, or if discomfort occurs with other symptoms, such as fever, redness, or swelling.
In this article, we look at the reasons why a person may have tooth sensitivity after a filling, how to treat it, and when to see a doctor or dentist. We also look at other possible causes of tooth sensitivity.
What should I expect after a filling?
A filling is a dental procedure that involves a dentist cleaning away any decay from the tooth and then filling the space with a new material.
Steps of Dental Filling
After injecting a numbing agent around the tooth, the dentist will then clean out the decayed area of the tooth, usually with a dental drill. They will then fill the space with gold, silver amalgam, a composite, or porcelain.
For several hours after having a filling, a person’s face may still feel numb, tingly, itchy, or puffy. They may have difficulty eating, swallowing, talking, or moving their face.
It’s normal to experience some discomfort or sensitivity after a filling. Here are some common experiences and tips for managing post-filling pain:
1. Initial Discomfort
Right after the filling procedure, you may feel numbness in the treated area due to the local anesthetic. As the numbness wears off, you might experience some mild pain or discomfort, which is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
2. Temperature Sensitivity
Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures is common after a filling. Using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and avoiding extremely hot or cold foods and drinks can help manage this sensitivity.
3. Chewing Discomfort
You might notice discomfort when chewing, especially if the filling is slightly high or misaligned. Eating soft foods and chewing on the opposite side of your mouth can help reduce discomfort until the bite is adjusted.
4. Follow-Up Visit
If your pain persists beyond a few days or if you experience severe pain, it’s important to schedule a follow-up visit with your dentist. They can assess the situation, make necessary adjustments, and provide additional treatment if needed.
What does sensitivity after a filling feel like?
When a person has a sensitive tooth, they may notice that certain triggers cause a temporary, uncomfortable sensation in the filled tooth or surrounding area. It may feel like a shock of cold or sudden pain that comes on quickly and goes away.
Factors that can trigger tooth sensitivity after a filling include:
- cold foods or drinks, such as ice cream, popsicles, or beverages with ice
- hot drinks, such as coffee or tea
- air hitting the tooth, such as when breathing through the mouth, which may be worse with cold air
- sugary foods, such as candy
- acidic foods and drinks, including fruit, juice, and coffee
- biting down when eating
Why do fillings cause tooth sensitivity?
Some sensitivity after a tooth filling is normal and temporary. Sometimes, however, sensitivity after a filling is due to other causes that need treatment or repair.
Short-term tooth sensitivity after a filling usually occurs because the filling procedure has aggravated or caused inflammation in the nerve inside the tooth.
Usually, the tooth’s outer layers — the enamel and cementum — protect the nerve from exposure. But fillings, especially deep ones, can get close to the nerve endings and cause irritation and uncomfortable sensations.
As the nerve heals, the sensitivity will go away. This may take a few days or weeks. Once the nerve has healed fully, a person should feel no difference between the filled tooth and the other teeth.
If the nerve does not heal and you still have pain and sensitivity so may require further treatment, such as a root canal.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some post-filling discomfort is normal, certain signs indicate you should contact your dentist:
- Persistent Pain: If your tooth continues to hurt for more than a week or the pain is severe, it’s important to seek dental advice.
- High Bite: If you feel that your bite is off or you experience pain when chewing, your filling may need to be adjusted.
- Signs of Infection: Symptoms such as swelling, pus, fever, or a foul taste in your mouth can indicate an infection and require immediate dental attention.
- Allergic Reaction: If you suspect an allergic reaction to the filling material, contact your dentist to discuss alternative options.
Preventing Future Tooth Pain
To minimize the risk of post-filling pain in the future, consider the following preventive measures:
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help prevent cavities and reduce the need for fillings.
2. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental visits allow your dentist to detect and treat cavities early, often resulting in less invasive procedures and reduced discomfort.
3. Avoid Hard Foods
Avoid chewing on hard foods or objects that can crack your teeth and necessitate fillings or other dental treatments.
4. Use Fluoride
Using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash can help strengthen your enamel and prevent tooth decay.
Conclusion
Experiencing pain after a dental filling is relatively common and usually temporary. Understanding the potential causes and knowing what to expect during the healing process can help you manage any discomfort effectively. If you experience persistent or severe pain, it’s important to contact your dentist for further evaluation and treatment. By maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, you can reduce the likelihood of future tooth pain and enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile.
Address for dental fillings in Da Nang
Discover the perfect blend of quality and affordability at Dana Dental, the top choice for dental fillings in Da Nang. Our clinic is renowned for providing exceptional dental care without breaking the bank. Whether you’re dealing with cavities, tooth decay, or simply need a dental touch-up, our skilled team is here to help. Don’t compromise on your dental health—choose Dana Dental for effective, budget-friendly dental fillings. Schedule your appointment today and experience top-notch care at a price you can afford!
Contact Information and Appointment Booking with dental implants near me
For more detailed consultation, please contact Dana Dental – a reputable dental clinic in Da Nang.
- Address: 129 Nguyen Hoang, Nam Duong Ward, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City
- Working hours:
Monday – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. - Free consultation hotline: 0788 588 588
(*) Treatment results may vary depending on each individual’s condition.
