A dental filling restores a tooth affected by decay or damage. A dentist removes decayed material and fills the space to prevent further damage and restore function. While routine, some discomfort after the procedure is common.
Expected Discomfort After a Filling
After a dental filling, it is normal to experience sensitivity or mild pain as the tooth adjusts. This discomfort typically manifests as sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, pressure from biting, or air exposure.
Sensitivity usually subsides within a few days to a couple of weeks. For deeper fillings, mild sensitivity might persist for up to four weeks. This is part of the healing process as the tooth’s nerves and surrounding tissues recover.
Causes of Post-Filling Pain
Discomfort after a dental filling can arise from several factors. Irritation of the tooth’s nerve during drilling, especially if the cavity was deep or close to the pulp, can lead to temporary inflammation (reversible pulpitis).
A slight alteration in bite alignment can also cause pain if the new filling is marginally higher than surrounding teeth, creating uneven pressure. Additionally, the filling material itself might contribute to sensitivity; some materials, like amalgam, conduct temperature more readily than composite resins, leading to heightened thermal sensitivity.
Managing Discomfort at Home
For mild discomfort after a filling, several home care strategies can provide relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Temporarily avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks, as well as acidic or sugary items, which can exacerbate sensitivity. Chewing on the opposite side of the mouth can help reduce direct pressure on the newly filled tooth.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing and flossing, is important. Using a desensitizing toothpaste can further aid in managing sensitivity, and rinsing with warm salt water several times a day can promote healing and reduce inflammation.
When to Seek Dental Attention
While some post-filling discomfort is normal, certain signs indicate a need for professional dental evaluation. Contact your dentist if you experience severe, throbbing pain that does not subside or worsens, especially if it interferes with sleep or daily activities.
Other warning signs include pain with swelling, fever, or a foul taste, which could suggest an infection. Persistent sensitivity beyond four weeks, sharp pain when biting down, or visible damage to the filling like cracks or chips, also warrant immediate dental attention. These symptoms might indicate issues such as an improperly aligned bite, nerve damage, secondary decay, or a failing filling.