Cavities need fillings, but many patients then have tooth sensitivity. This common fix can leave nerves sensitive, causing discomfort. If you’re questioning, “Why are my teeth sensitive after fillings?” you are not alone. We explain why this happens. This problem might last some time. You probably want to know how to feel better. Visit the dentist again when necessary.
At Moorestown Smile Center, we aim to brighten your smile. We offer expert care and gentle solutions for sensitive teeth. Contact us today.
Why Do Teeth Feel Sensitive After a Filling?
Once a filling is done, the tooth needs time to heal. Sensitivity might occur for a few reasons:
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Nerve Irritation
Your tooth’s inside has a soft part. It’s the pulp. It holds nerves and blood vessels. A dentist may irritate the nerves when taking out a cavity. Deep decay often causes this sensitivity. This often makes your teeth feel sensitive.
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The Filling Material
Some filling materials, like metal or composite, can conduct heat and cold. This probably leads to your tooth feeling cold after getting a filling. Your tooth might respond strongly to hot or cold foods until it gets used to the change.
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Bite Problems
If the filling is a bit too high, it can alter how your teeth align when you bite. This may lead to “pain after filling when chewing.”
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Natural Healing Process
Your tooth is getting used to the new filling. This change often causes some teeth sensitivity after fillings.
How Long Will My Teeth Be Sensitive After a Filling?
You might think about, “How long will my teeth be sensitive after a filling?” Sensitivity usually lasts a few days. Sometimes, it lasts up to two weeks. The time needed differs depending on how big the cavity is. It also depends on the type of filling used. The tooth’s recovery speed also matters. Healing time really affects the duration.
Tooth sensitivity lasting more than two weeks needs attention. If pain increases, see your dentist. They’ll check for issues like a bad filling or crack. A professional review is key for a correct diagnosis. Don’t ignore ongoing pain; it ensures proper care for your sensitive tooth.
Is It Normal to Have Cold Sensitivity After a Filling?
Cold sensitivity after a filling happens often. Tooth nerves become more sensitive right after the dentist works on them. Sensitivity should really lessen as the tooth gets better.
What Can You Do to Lower Sensitivity After a Filling?
If you have “sensitivity after a dental filling,” there are ways to relieve the discomfort:
1. Avoid Hot or Cold Foods
Foods and drinks that are hot or cold might really increase your sensitivity. Pick meals that are lukewarm or at room temperature for a period.
2. Use a Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Tooth pain signals travel to nerves and cause sensitivity. Some toothpastes can block these signals. This leads to less discomfort. Companies make these products to solve common issues and provide relief.
3. Be Gentle When Brushing
Use soft bristle strokes to keep teeth and gums in good condition. Hard brushing probably causes sensitivity and irritation. So, pick a soft-bristled brush for the best care.
4. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Crunchy foods, such as nuts, damage your filling. Sticky ones, like caramel, also cause problems for fillings. This may lead to “pain in tooth after filling.”
5. Take Pain Relievers if Needed
If you have mouth pain after filling, an OTC pain reliever can help. Just follow the label instructions.
6. Chew on the Other Side
Chewing on the opposite side helps when a tooth hurts. This simple change allows the sensitive area to rest.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Some sensitivity is normal. But, you should contact your dentist if it worsens.
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Pain Lasts More Than Two Weeks
Pain or sensitivity after two weeks might indicate a problem with the filling. Something could be wrong.
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Biting Feels Uncomfortable
If you have “pain after filling when chewing,” your filling may be too high and needs adjustment.
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Severe or Sharp Pain
Sharp, severe pain may mean a cracked tooth or a serious dental issue. It requires prompt care.
A quick dental checkup keeps your teeth healthy and reduces your worries.
How to Prevent Sensitivity After a Filling
Sensitivity often occurs after a filling, but several things might lessen discomfort:
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Take Care of Your Teeth
Brushing and flossing daily protect teeth from decay. Healthy smiles need less dental work.
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Make Regular Trips to the Dentist
See your dentist often to catch cavities early. They can spot small problems before they get worse, which reduces discomfort. Smaller fillings mean less sensitivity. This keeps your smile healthy and pain-free.
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Tell Your Dentist About Sensitivities
Tell your dentist about any past tooth sensitivity. They can then use gentle treatments to ease your discomfort.
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Choose the Right Filling Material
Certain materials suit sensitive teeth better. Talk to your dentist about the choices if you’re worried.
What Happens If the Sensitivity Doesn’t Go Away?
If your sensitivity doesn’t recover, your dentist may need to examine it more thoroughly. Potential solutions include:
- Replacing the Filling: Your tooth and the filling material may occasionally conflict.
- Root Canal Treatment: A root canal may be needed to fix severe nerve irritation. It will remove the damaged tissue.
Final Thoughts: Why Are My Teeth Sensitive After Fillings?
“Why are my teeth sensitive after fillings?” you may ask. Yes, it is. After getting a filling, some people feel tooth sensitivity. This discomfort is normal. Don’t worry; your tooth is just getting used to the new material. Normally, this sense of discomfort disappears within a couple of weeks.
But, if chewing hurts, or if stiffness and sensitivity persist, see your dentist. Your filling is fine, and your tooth is healthy.
Maintaining your dental health is crucial. Avoid very hot or cold foods. Follow the advice from your dentist. These actions help manage teeth sensitivity after fillings. This way, enjoying your favorite foods becomes possible again without worry.
FAQs
Why Does My Tooth Hurt When I Bite?
Pain when chewing after a filling probably means the filling is sitting too high. Extra pressure presses on your tooth, causing pain. The dentist can fix this with a quick adjustment. It’s easy.
Can Mouth Pain After Filling Be Serious?
Although most “mouth pain after filling” is mild, intense or persistent pain isn’t typical. Always inform your dentist if something feels off.
