Tooth Sensitivity After Filling
It is not uncommon for patients to experience some sensitivity following a dental filling procedure. There are several common causes for tooth sensitivity occurring after a filling has been placed, including the following.
- Change in bite: One of the most common causes for sensitivity following a filling is when there is problem with your bite, which is caused by the filling that has been placed has made the affected tooth taller than the surrounding teeth. If you are concerned that your bite may have changed following your procedure, please contact your dentist so they can adjust your filling to better match your teeth.
- Allergic reaction: Though less common, another cause of sensitivity following a filling procedure is an allergic reaction to the material of the filling. Patients experiencing this side effect will often notice itching or a nearby rash. If you are experiencing either of these symptoms, contact your dentist, who can replace the filling with a different type of material.
- Pulpitis: Prior to filling the cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed parts of your tooth. Although rare, there are cases where this process inflames the pulp and causes pulpitis to occur. This can also occur when not all the decay has been properly removed. Many patients will naturally heal when this occurs, but it is possible that the pulp will not be able to heal on its own, in which case a root canal will be necessary.
- Multiple filling types: Some patients have experienced tooth sensitivity after having two different material types of fillings placed. For example, if one tooth had a silver filling and the one directly above it had a gold filling, it is possible to experience sensitivity when the two materials touch.
Managing Tooth Sensitivity
Having sensitivity following a procedure is very common, but the good news is there are several things you can do to alleviate the pain and speed up the healing process. Following the procedure, it is important to continue monitoring the sensitivity and swelling for the first 24-48 hours. If swelling persists, it is a good idea to use a cold compress for 15 minute intervals, both on and off. Additional best practices for managing recovery include the following:
- Stick to a soft food diet (soup, yogurt, et. al.) for 24-48 hours until swelling and sensitivity decreases
- Chew on the opposite side of your mouth
- Limit use of straws for the first 48-72 hours as the use of these can prolong the sensitivity
- Avoid rigorous activity for at least 24 hours
- Practice gentle brushing and flossing
- Use acetaminophen as prescribed and if/when necessary
- Avoid food or beverages that are acidic and/or extremely hot or extremely cold for 24-48 following the procedure
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste
Sensitivity associated with having a tooth filling will generally be completely gone within a few weeks. If after this period of time you are still experiencing significant sensitivity, please contact your dentist to see if a follow up appointment is necessary.
Contact Renaissance Dental Center about your consultation today, let us help you decide what restorative filling is right for you.
Want to learn more about fillings? Read : How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost?