A tooth filling is considered the best recommendation to fill a cavity or to treat decay in the mouth. Dental Filling is a safe, comfortable, and timeless procedure, but is it normal to feel some sensitivity?
Well, you may expect some discomfort or tooth sensitivity after filling is applied.
Below explains more.
What Can I Expect During Filling Treatment?
Tooth sensitivity or tooth pain after a filling is common, but the sensitivity would occur during the procedure itself.
Without filling treatment, the sensitivity would continue to get worse if the dentist doesn’t clean the infected area. The infection may also penetrate the tooth root, exposing and damaging the vessels.
As part of filling treatment, the dentist first applies a numbing agent to reduce any pain you may experience before drilling down the infected tooth to clean out any decay that’s formed.
The hole is then filled with filling material, either with composite or amalgam. The sensitivity after the filling may occur for a few hours which is likely to impact overall mouth functioning once, such as speaking and chewing on food. This will naturally happen once the numbing agent wears off.
The dentist would recommend that you take care of your tooth filling by avoiding eating and drinking for a few hours after treatment. You’d want to make sure your mouth adjusts to the new filling which can take several days.
How To Manage Any Tooth Sensitivity After Filling?
You’re likely to experience discomfort for the first two to three days post-treatment. It is recommended that you contact the dentist if the sensitivity continues past three days.
Below are some helpful tips to reduce tooth sensitivity after filling:
- Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
- Avoid hot and cold beverages and drinks as this can escalate the sensitivity.
- Be gentle when brushing your teeth around the filled area. You want to ensure you don’t disturb or dislodge the filling.
- Drink water as the preferred liquid choice
- Consider softer choices of food such as potato, soup, and leafy vegetables
What Happens If My Tooth Filling Becomes Dislodged?
A dental accident could result in the tooth filling becoming dislodged. If this happens, it is recommended that you consult the dentist as soon as you can. The tooth will quickly become exposed to bacteria and food debris which can trickle down to the tooth root and its vessels.
Below outlines what you should do if the filling becomes dislodged:
- Keep the filling safe and don’t lose it. Consider placing it in a container or a polythene bag and taking it with you to your appointment
- Continue to brush your teeth but gently to ensure the mouth stays clean
- Avoid chewing on the affected tooth
- Notify the dentist about how the filling dislodged
- If tooth sensitivity persists, take a pain reliever such as Ibuprofen
If you need further support with your tooth filling in the Bendigo area, consult our dentist Bendigo to discuss how to manage tooth sensitivity after filling. Take good care of your teeth if you have a filling to prevent future cavities.
