A cavity filling removes decayed tooth material and replaces it with a durable substance to restore the tooth’s function and structure. Following post-procedure instructions ensures the filling material sets properly, minimizes discomfort, and prevents the need for premature replacement.
Immediate Restrictions on Chewing and Eating
Wait for the local anesthetic to completely wear off before attempting to eat. Chewing while your cheek, lip, or tongue is still numb can result in accidental soft tissue injury, which you may not feel until the anesthesia fades.
The required waiting time before chewing depends on the filling material. Composite resin fillings are cured immediately with a light and are ready for light use. Silver amalgam fillings, however, require up to 24 hours to reach their maximum strength, so avoid chewing on that side for a full day. Regardless of the filling type, stick to soft foods and chew exclusively on the opposite side of your mouth for the initial 24 hours.
Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for the first 24 to 48 hours to protect the new restoration from dislodgement or fracture. Sticky items like gum or caramel can exert a pulling force on the fresh material. Hard foods like nuts or ice can place excessive pressure on the newly filled area.
Managing Post-Filling Sensitivity
Temporary sensitivity to temperature changes or biting force is a normal response after a filling. This sensitivity to hot, cold, or air exposure should gradually lessen over a few days to a week as the tooth heals.
During this initial healing phase, avoid consuming foods and beverages with extreme temperatures, such as very hot coffee or ice cream. Choosing lukewarm or room-temperature liquids and soft foods helps keep the tooth calm and promotes healing.
Refrain from grinding or clenching your teeth, which puts undue stress on the fresh filling and causes pain. If your bite feels uneven or if the pain is sharp and persistent when you bite down, contact your dental office immediately. If sensitivity lasts longer than a week or two, it may signal a deeper issue requiring professional evaluation.
Oral Hygiene Precautions
Aggressive cleaning must be avoided immediately following the procedure. Do not brush or floss vigorously directly on the site of the new filling for the first few hours. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clean the area gently to avoid irritating the surrounding gum tissue.
For the first 24 hours, postpone using any mouthwash, especially those containing alcohol. Alcohol-based mouthwashes can irritate the freshly treated gum tissue or potentially affect the integrity of composite restorations. Switching to an alcohol-free mouth rinse or using a gentle salt water rinse is a good temporary substitute if needed during the first day.
Resume your normal, thorough brushing and flossing routine after the initial sensitive period has passed, typically within a day or two. Consistent and careful cleaning around the new filling is necessary to prevent plaque buildup and the development of new decay at the margins of the restoration.