Too Pain After Filling

One of the most common types of restorations used in dentistry is a dental filling. While a filling is incredibly safe and effective, it can result in tooth pain. Common causes of tooth pain after a filling are summarized below, along with things to help avoid post-treatment pain.

Tooth pain can be tempting to ignore, but it may suggest that there is an underlying issue that requires treatment. When a patient experiences tooth pain following treatment, the severity can range from hardly noticeable to extremely uncomfortable.

Causes

In most cases, the dentist will use a filling in the treatment of a cavity. Pain associated with a cavity can present differently. The pain may be sporadic, a slight ache, increased sensitivity, or more severe and result in intense pain.

It can be normal to experience slight discomfort after a filling, and treatment may be needed in order to stop the discomfort. In addition to the tooth adjusting to the filling, below are additional causes of tooth pain after a filling.

Bite

An imbalanced bite can place extra pressure on the tooth that received the filling. When chewing, this can result in sensitivity and pain. It is possible for the dental filling to be elevated, resulting in additional pressure and bite challenges. Dental professionals work diligently to prevent any bite issues, but the anesthesia can make it challenging to detect them right away. In some cases, the filling needs to be adjusted after the anesthesia wears off.

Sensitivity

It is perfectly normal for the teeth to be sensitive after a filling. While this can occur as the tooth adjusts to the filling, the nerves may also have a strong response to hot or cold temperatures. It is also possible for biting forces to trigger pain. Sugary foods and beverages should be avoided, as these things can worsen the sensitivity. The sensitivity will usually resolve itself within a few weeks as the tooth and nerves heal.

In order to avoid increased sensitivity, patients should avoid hot and cold things. It is possible for the filling to expose nerves. By avoiding extreme temperatures, the nerves have an opportunity to recover.

Methods that can help manage and resolve pain after a filling are summarized below.

Medication

An over-the-counter pain reliever works for most patients to manage normal post-procedure pain. Patients can use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce inflammation. This offers relief while the tooth recovers. As with any medication, patients should follow the recommended dosage and instructions.

Oral Hygiene

After a filling, it is critical to practice and maintain good oral hygiene. This helps expedite healing and also avoids complications. Good oral hygiene includes brushing the teeth at least twice each day, daily flossing, and regular visits to the dentist. Routine dental visits include a thorough examination and professional cleaning. In addition, these visits aid in the early detection of issues such as a cavity. The dentist will often obtain X-rays during these appointments, which can also be helpful in identifying cavities.

Patients who have pain after a filling should call the office right away. Our team can schedule an appointment to determine the cause and ensure the issue is resolved. In most cases, the pain will be gone within a week or two.

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