After you get a cavity filled, the last thing you want is for your tooth to keep hurting. While a little pain shortly after your dental filling procedure is normal, too much for too long can be a sign that something is wrong. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect after a filling and when to call the dentist.
Immediately after you return home from getting your cavity filled, you can start practicing ways to relieve the discomfort. Start by avoiding common sensitivity triggers like extremely hot or cold foods. Sometimes fillings are sensitive to the air so you can mitigate this pain by wearing a mouthguard when you’re not eating or drinking. Finally, start brushing with sensitive tooth toothpaste right away.
When you get a filling, your dentist will numb the area around the tooth. As the numbing agent wears off, you’ll start to feel some sensitivity. Furthermore, you’ll probably experience some tingling in your face from the numbing agent.
Fillings replace the decayed area of a tooth, so it’s pretty normal to experience some tooth sensitivity after your procedure. You may notice an increased sensitivity to hot foods, cold foods, air temperature, or pressure that lasts for a few weeks.
If you are still experiencing tooth pain or gum pain for a few days after your initial procedure, it’s time to call the dentist. You may have a loose filling, still have a cavity, or something else.
Sharp tooth pain after a filling can be a sign of a cracked or loose filling. There’s also a chance that you may be allergic to the materials in the filling, which would typically cause intense pain or swelling.
Remember, it’s normal to experience sensitivity after a filling but never intense discomfort or pain. If your sensitivity is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, redness, or swelling, there’s a good chance that something is wrong.
Whether you’re experiencing short-term pain after your filling or caring for a sensitive tooth, there are some precautions you can take to protect it and prevent the sensitivity from getting worse.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or suspect that you may have a cavity, Marsfield Dental Clinic in Macquarie Park can help! Fillings are one of the most common procedures we do here at the clinic, and we’ll send you home with sublime instructions on how to prevent pain after your tooth filling and when you should be concerned.
To schedule your dentist appointment, call us on 02 9887 1961.
Disclaimer – This blog article does not constitute health advice from a dental professional. For more specific information, please seek an appointment with a dentist.
"The information in this website may be simplified in nature and does not replace professional advice. Risks and consequences may apply to any treatment. Always seek a second opinion when considering complex treatment. A referral to a specialist may be required in certain situations. Quotations can only be given after proper clinical assessment and so pricing details cannot be given over the phone."
COVID 19 Update - Oct 2021
All our members of staff - Dentists and supporting assistants - are fully vaccinated. We are a COVID-safe practice and we are open for all general dental treatment needs and services.
