Tooth Pain After Filling
Dental fillings are an incredibly common treatment. Following a filling, patients may experience tooth pain. Below is a summary of common causes and options that can help resolve this type of tooth pain.
It can be easy to dismiss tooth pain, but it should not be ignored. It may be an indicator of an underlying issue that requires treatment. Tooth pain after a filling can range from mild and barely noticeable to severe and debilitating.
Tooth Pain After a Filling
A filling is commonly used for treating a tooth with a cavity. This type of pain can present in different ways. Patients may experience a dull ache, sensitivity, or a sharp pain.
The discomfort is relatively common and can be mild. Treating the issue is important to manage and eliminate discomfort. Tooth pain can be associated with the tooth adjusting to the new filling, but there are also other causes. Common causes for tooth pain following a filling are outlined below.
Sensitivity
Sensitive teeth are common after dental fillings. Sensitivity can occur due to the tooth adjusting to the new filling. It is possible for the nerves to have more intense responses to hot or cold temperatures immediately following the filling. The forces of biting can also trigger pain. Patients should avoid sugary foods and drinks, which can worsen the sensitivity. This type of increased sensitivity will typically be resolved on its own within a few weeks. The tooth will get used to the filling and adjust accordingly.
Bite Issues
When the bit is not properly balanced, extra pressure can be placed on the tooth with the filling. This can result in pain and sensitivity when chewing on the tooth containing the filling. When the dental filling is higher compared to the surrounding surfaces, this can result in extra pressure on the tooth and cause issues with your bite. The dentist will work to prevent this, but it can be challenging to detect or notice before the anesthesia has worn off.
Methods that can be helpful in relieving tooth pain after a filling are outlined below.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
It can be helpful to avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks in order to minimize the tooth’s sensitivity. Following the filling, the dental nerves can become exposed and more reactive. This results in increased sensitivity. When you avoid these extreme temperatures, it can give the nerves an opportunity to calm down.
Diet
It can also be helpful to avoid foods that are sugary or highly acidic. These foods can enhance the tooth’s sensitivity and cause inflammation. Minimize or avoid these things, especially during the healing period, to prevent pain and expedite the recovery process.
Pain Medication
Following a filling, patients can use an over-the-counter pain reliever to manage mild pain. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief while the tooth heals. Be sure to follow dosage guidelines and only use these medications as prescribed.
Good Oral Hygiene
In order to promote healing and prevent complications, it is critical to practice good oral hygiene after a filling. This includes twice-daily brushing, daily flossing, and use of a mouthwash as needed. Patients should also be sure to maintain routine dental visits for an exam and professional cleaning. These visits are helpful in the early detection and treatment of issues that are detected.
Call the office if you experience pain after receiving a filling. The team can determine the cause and resolve the issue in a timely manner.