Experiencing discomfort after a dental filling is common. This sensation can range from mild sensitivity to pain when chewing. Understanding the reasons and knowing what actions to take can help manage the situation.
Reasons for Post-Filling Discomfort
One common reason for discomfort after a dental filling is pulpitis, inflammation of the dental pulp, the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. Reversible pulpitis involves temporary inflammation, often caused by heat during the filling procedure or the filling’s proximity to the nerve, resulting in sensitivity to cold that typically subsides within a few weeks. However, if the pain is severe, persistent, or lingers long after exposure to hot or cold stimuli, it may indicate irreversible pulpitis, suggesting significant nerve damage that requires further dental intervention.
Another frequent cause of pain when chewing is a high filling, meaning the material is slightly elevated compared to the surrounding tooth surface. This unevenness creates excessive pressure on the tooth when biting, leading to discomfort as the force is not distributed evenly. Sometimes, pain can also be felt in teeth adjacent to the newly filled tooth, a phenomenon known as referred pain.
Allergic reactions to filling materials, though rare, can also cause discomfort. Symptoms might include skin rashes, itching, or swelling around the tooth or gums. In some instances, a dental filling might conceal or worsen an existing crack in the tooth, leading to sharp pain when chewing, a condition referred to as cracked tooth syndrome.
Galvanic shock represents another uncommon source of discomfort. This occurs when two different metal restorations, such as an older metal filling and a new one, come into contact, creating a mild electrical current and a sudden “zinging” sensation. Modern filling materials have significantly reduced the occurrence of galvanic shock.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some mild sensitivity after a dental filling is expected, certain signs indicate the need for professional dental evaluation. If the pain or sensitivity around the filled tooth persists for more than two weeks, or if it noticeably worsens, contact a dentist. Pain that is severe, throbbing, or disrupts daily activities or sleep also signals a need for prompt attention.
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, particularly if the discomfort is sharp and persists long after the stimulus is removed, suggests a potential issue with the tooth’s nerve. Any visible swelling or redness in the gums surrounding the filled tooth, or if there is fluid leaking, warrants an immediate dental visit. A fever accompanying dental pain is another serious sign that requires urgent professional assessment.
If you experience specific pain when biting down, especially if it feels like hitting a high spot or causes sharp discomfort upon contact, the filling might be interfering with your bite. This indicates that the filling may need adjustment.
Professional Evaluation and Solutions
When you experience persistent or concerning pain after a filling, a dentist will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the cause. This typically involves a visual examination, tapping the tooth to assess sensitivity, and using cold or hot tests. The dentist may also use articulating paper (bite paper) to check bite alignment and identify high spots. Dental X-rays provide additional insights into the tooth’s internal structure and root health.
Based on the diagnosis, various solutions can be employed. If a high filling causes chewing pain, a simple bite adjustment (occlusal adjustment) can often resolve the issue. This involves reshaping and polishing the filling to ensure it aligns properly with your natural bite. For deep cavities where the filling is close to the tooth’s pulp, a medicated filling or liner might be placed underneath the permanent filling to protect the nerve and promote healing.
Should the existing filling be faulty, cracked, or if an allergic reaction is suspected, the dentist may recommend replacing it with a new one made from a different material. If the diagnosis points to irreversible pulpitis or significant nerve damage, root canal therapy becomes a primary treatment option. This procedure involves removing inflamed or infected pulp tissue, cleaning the tooth’s interior, and sealing it to prevent further infection. In severe cases where the tooth is extensively damaged or infected beyond repair, tooth extraction may be necessary.
At-Home Pain Relief
While awaiting a dental appointment or during the initial healing period, several at-home measures can help manage post-filling discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Modifying your diet can also reduce irritation to the newly filled tooth. Opt for a soft diet, avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods that could put pressure on the filling or dislodge it. Foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups are good choices. Additionally, try to avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the new filling to allow the tooth to settle undisturbed.
Rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution several times a day can help reduce inflammation and maintain cleanliness around the treated area. To prepare, dissolve about half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek, near the affected area, can also help reduce swelling and numb discomfort. Apply the compress for 10 to 15-minute intervals.