Tooth pain after getting a dental filling can be frustrating and a little worrying. If you’ve ever had a sharp twinge when biting down or felt discomfort from hot or cold drinks, you’re not alone. While some pain after a filling is normal, it shouldn’t last forever. Understanding what’s typical, what’s not, and how to handle it can make the process easier.
Is It Normal to Feel Pain After a Filling?
It’s common to feel some sensitivity or discomfort after a dental filling. This can include a sharp or dull pain when you eat or drink something hot or cold. You may also feel pressure when biting down. Most of the time, this type of pain lasts for a short period and gradually goes away.
Mild pain or sensitivity after a filling usually lasts between 2 to 4 weeks. During this time, your tooth adjusts to the filling material, and the nerves inside your tooth calm down. If your discomfort fades a little more each day, that’s usually a good sign.
What Causes Tooth Pain After a Filling?
There are several reasons why a tooth might hurt after it’s been filled. Some are temporary, while others need a dentist’s help.
Pulpitis (Inflammation of the Nerve)
Sometimes, the nerve inside the tooth becomes irritated during the filling process. This can happen from the drilling or from the cavity being close to the nerve. This condition is called pulpitis.
There are two types:
- Reversible pulpitis: The pain goes away on its own as the tooth heals.
- Irreversible pulpitis: The pain continues or gets worse and may require a root canal.
High Filling or Bite Issues
If your filling is a little too tall, it can affect your bite. This means your teeth don’t come together properly when you chew. This pressure can make your tooth sore. It may also lead to more serious issues like jaw pain or even cracking a tooth. Fixing the height of the filling is usually a quick fix at the dentist.
Cracked Tooth or Filling
Sometimes the tooth or the filling itself can crack. This might happen during the filling process or if you bite down on something hard afterward. A cracked filling can expose the inner parts of your tooth, leading to sharp pain when chewing or when exposed to cold or heat.
Dentin Hypersensitivity
If the protective layer of your tooth enamel is thin or worn down, you may have dentin hypersensitivity. This means the inner part of your tooth (dentin) is exposed to things like cold air, drinks, or certain foods. Studies show about 15% of people experience this kind of sensitivity.
Pre-Existing Sensitivity
If your tooth was already sensitive before the filling, it might take longer to feel normal. This could be due to enamel wear, gum recession, or a past injury to the tooth.
Allergic Reaction to Filling Material
Though rare, some people can have allergic reactions to the materials used in dental fillings, like certain metals or composite resins. If your gums or cheeks swell, or if you develop a rash, it’s important to call your dentist.
When Pain Means Something More
Pain that gets worse over time or sticks around for more than a month isn’t typical. You should also pay attention to other signs like:
- Throbbing or spontaneous pain that comes without eating or drinking
- Swelling near the tooth
- Pain that wakes you up at night
- Pain when chewing soft foods
These could be signs of a deeper problem like an infection or irreversible pulpitis, and you should get checked out.
How to Help Tooth Sensitivity at Home
If your pain is mild and doesn’t seem to be getting worse, there are a few things you can do at home to make yourself more comfortable.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain and swelling. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label.
Use Desensitizing Toothpaste
Toothpaste made for sensitive teeth can help block pain signals from reaching the nerves inside your tooth. It may take a few days of regular use to notice results.
Eat Soft Foods
Chewing hard or sticky foods can make tooth pain worse. Try sticking to softer foods for a few days to give your tooth a break.
Avoid Hot and Cold Foods
Extreme temperatures can make sensitive teeth feel worse. Try to eat foods that are closer to room temperature and avoid icy drinks or hot soup until your tooth settles down.
Rinse with Warm Salt Water
A saltwater rinse can help reduce inflammation and keep the area clean. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and swish gently for 30 seconds.
When to Call the Dentist
If your tooth pain lasts longer than 2 to 4 weeks, or if it gets worse instead of better, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Pain that lingers, feels deep, or comes with swelling should never be ignored. Your dentist can check for bite issues, cracks, or signs of infection and recommend the right treatment—whether that’s a small adjustment or something more involved like a root canal.
Get Dental Help Today
Tooth pain after a filling is common, but it shouldn’t stick around for too long. Most people feel better within a few weeks. But if the pain keeps bothering you or gets worse, it’s best to get it looked at. Whether it’s a bite issue, nerve irritation, or something else, getting help sooner can prevent bigger problems later.
If you’re feeling discomfort after a filling, call (303) 933-2522 to schedule a check-up. We’ll help figure out what’s going on and get you back to feeling comfortable again.
Category: General