Experiencing pain when chewing food after a tooth filling is common. This discomfort, from mild sensitivity to sharp pain, can be unsettling. Understanding the reasons is the first step to addressing it. This article explores the causes of post-filling pain while chewing and outlines steps to take.
Common Reasons for Discomfort
A frequent cause of discomfort after a filling is a “high bite” or improper occlusion, where the filling is slightly elevated compared to the surrounding tooth surface. This unevenness can lead to increased pressure on the filled tooth when biting down, disrupting the natural alignment of your bite and causing pain. Even a slight misalignment can irritate the tooth. Dentists adjust this during the procedure, but it may only become noticeable once the anesthesia wears off.
Temporary tooth sensitivity is another common reason for pain after a filling, especially initially. The process of removing decayed material and placing the filling can irritate the tooth’s nerve endings, making the tooth more reactive to temperature changes, pressure, or even sweet foods. This sensitivity subsides as the tooth adjusts to the new filling material.
Pain can also arise from new tooth decay developing beneath an existing filling, which can cause discomfort when chewing. Similarly, a crack in the tooth structure itself or in the filling material can lead to sharp pain upon biting down. These cracks can create pathways for bacteria or expose sensitive inner tooth layers.
If the decay was deep and extended close to the tooth’s pulp, the innermost layer containing nerves and blood vessels, the filling process might stress or inflame these nerves, a condition known as pulpitis. This inflammation can cause ongoing pain, particularly when chewing. Gum inflammation around the filled tooth can also contribute to localized discomfort, as the gum tissue may be irritated by the filling or the procedure.
Immediate Steps and When to See a Dentist
To manage discomfort after a tooth filling, you can take a few immediate steps. Opting for soft foods and avoiding chewing on the affected side can help reduce pressure on the newly filled tooth. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may also help alleviate mild to moderate pain.
Monitor your symptoms closely to determine if the pain lessens or worsens over time. While some temporary sensitivity is expected and often resolves within one to two weeks, persistent or worsening discomfort, or pain that does not subside within a few weeks, requires professional attention.
You should see a dentist if you experience sharp pain when biting down, especially if it is worsening. Other indicators for a dental visit include pain accompanied by swelling, fever, or pus, which could signal an infection. If you notice any visible damage to the filling or the tooth, such as a chip or crack, seek prompt dental care.
Professional Diagnosis and Treatment
When you visit the dentist for chewing pain after a filling, they will conduct a thorough dental examination of the tooth and the filling. This involves visually inspecting the tooth and testing its sensitivity. The dentist may also use diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause of the discomfort.
X-rays are often used to check for decay beneath the filling, assess the condition of the tooth root, or identify any issues within the bone structure. To evaluate the bite, the dentist might use articulating paper, which leaves marks on the tooth surfaces to reveal high spots on the filling that are interfering with proper occlusion.
Based on the diagnosis, various treatments may be recommended.
Bite Adjustment
If a high filling is the cause, a simple bite adjustment can often resolve the issue by reshaping the filling to align with your natural bite.
Filling Replacement
If the filling is old, worn, or new decay is present underneath, the dentist may suggest a filling replacement.
Root Canal Therapy
For cases where deep pulp inflammation or infection is present, root canal therapy might be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
Crown Placement
If the tooth is significantly cracked or weakened, a crown may be placed to protect and restore its structure.
Observation
In instances of temporary sensitivity, the dentist might simply recommend observation, as the tooth heals on its own.