A dental filling is a common and successful treatment for a decayed or damaged tooth, but some patients develop tooth pain after a filling, which is alarming. If you find yourself with sensitivity following a filling, you may be wondering if it’s part of the healing process or something that indicates an issue. This blog will provide information about what happens after a filling and when it is appropriate to seek the professional help of a dentist in order to preserve good oral health.

Why Does Tooth Sensitivity Occur After a Filling?

It is normal to have post-filling tooth sensitivity after the procedure. The sensitivity is brought about by a number of factors that include:

1.  Nerve Irritation

If the cavity is fairly deep, then the filling material will be close to the nerve, which results in sensitivity for a short period of time. The nerve is not fully insulated, and thus it takes time to become desensitized, which may take a few days, weeks or even months.

1.  Changes in Bite Alignment

If the filling is above the enamel, it will contact the chewing surface and cause pain or discomfort when chewing. A dentist near you is also able to make adjustments to the filling to resolve this problem.

1.  Type of Filling Material Used

Various materials transfer temperature in different ways. Metal fillings, for example, can conduct heat and cold better than composite ones, which can cause sensitivity after dental filling when consuming hot or cold foods.

1.  Bonding Process

With composite fillings, the bonding procedure can occasionally irritate the tooth and lead to temporary sensitivity. This will normally pass within a few days.

1.  Existing Tooth Sensitivity

If you had sensitive teeth already before the filling, the treatment may temporarily aggravate the situation.

How long is Post-Filling Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity after a filling will generally last for a few days or maybe a week. You can be in pain while consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods, or while biting on something. If the sensitivity later on ceases, then it is most probably a healing process.

How to Manage Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Filling

If you’re experiencing discomfort, there are several ways to alleviate the sensitivity:

1.  Use Desensitizing Toothpaste

Specialized toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help reduce discomfort by blocking pain signals from reaching the nerve.

1.  Avoid Trigger Foods

Try to stay away from extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods that might aggravate sensitivity.

1.  Chew on the Opposite Side

If your tooth that is filled is sensitive, do not strain it by chewing on the opposite side of your mouth.

1.  Use Over-the-Counter Pain Medications

Pain from mild discomfort can be treated with drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, see your dentist if pain endures.

1.  Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing regularly should continue so that further decay is prevented and oral health is maintained as a whole. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent irritation.

Prevention of Sensitivity Following Future Fillings

• To reduce pain after having dental fillings in Winnipeg, follow the following preventive measures:
• Treat cavities early: The greater the depth of a cavity, the greater the risk of post-filling sensitivity.
• Talk about material choices: Some people are sensitive to some filling materials. Your dentist can advise on the best choice.
• Adhere to aftercare instructions: Good post-procedure care, such as diet modification and oral hygiene, can reduce sensitivity.

Expert Dental Care at Grand Smiles

If you need a dentist to take care of your issues, Grand Smiles is where you should be. Our professionals provide top-notch dental fillings in Winnipeg, and your oral health is in good hands. Contact us today for a consultation.