A dental filling is a common procedure to address cavities and restore tooth structure. While the process aims to alleviate pain from decay, it is common to experience some discomfort or sensitivity afterward. This sensation is a normal response as the tooth adjusts to the new material and begins healing. Temporary sensations are often part of this adjustment period.
Understanding Post-Filling Sensitivity
After a dental filling, various types of discomfort may occur. This can include sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, sharp pain when biting, or a dull ache or throbbing sensation. These sensations arise from physiological changes within the tooth.
Discomfort often stems from inflammation of the dental pulp, which is the nerve tissue inside the tooth. The drilling process generates heat and vibration, which can irritate the pulp, especially if the cavity was deep. Another frequent cause of pain is an uneven bite, where the new filling is slightly higher than surrounding teeth. This can create excessive pressure when biting, leading to discomfort. Occasionally, pain might be referred to adjacent teeth, though this usually resolves quickly.
Expected Recovery Timeline
The duration of post-filling sensitivity typically varies depending on the individual and the nature of the filling. Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure often subsides within a few days to one or two weeks. For deeper fillings, where the dental pulp was more significantly affected, this sensitivity might persist for up to four weeks as the nerve heals.
If discomfort arises from a high filling or uneven bite, this pain can resolve quickly once the dentist makes adjustments. Discomfort should gradually decrease over time. For composite fillings, temporary sensitivity often passes within a few days.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some post-filling discomfort is expected, certain signs indicate a need to contact your dentist. These include pain that is severe, worsening, or persists beyond the typical recovery timeline. A sharp pain when biting down that does not resolve after initial adjustments is also a warning sign.
Other concerning symptoms include swelling around the tooth or jaw, or signs of infection such as fever or a throbbing ache. These could point to underlying issues like an improperly placed filling, a cracked tooth, or irreversible pulpitis. Irreversible pulpitis involves inflammation of the dental pulp that will not heal on its own and may require further treatment. Allergic reactions to filling materials, though rare, can also cause persistent sensitivity, sometimes accompanied by rashes. Delaying professional attention can lead to more complex dental issues.