If the toothache is getting worse after a filling, the most common reasons are related to damage and decay. After a few hours, you should be fine. However, complete recovery might take longer. If this pain persists over time, you should contact a dentist.
Most likely, you are suffering from complications. These complications can include:
| Type of problem after a filling | Treatment |
| Large cavities | Larger filling may be needed |
| Cavity / damage to other teeth | Additional follow-up |
| Anesthetic issues / allergic reaction | Medical advise may be necessary |
| Development of another cavity | Another filling |
| Uneven bite | May need additional or separate treatment |
Large cavities
The dentist underestimated the depth of the cavity, which is larger than previously thought. A larger filling is recommended, or even a porcelain crown instead of a regular one. Extensive treatment is necessary for large cavities, with extraction being the last resort.
Damage to other teeth
In some rare cases, the nearby teeth can get damaged during the filling procedure. Your dentist should be skilled enough to avoid such a thing, but accidents can happen. They can damage a neighboring tooth or gum with the drill, causing pain in the area. Additional visits and more healing time are required for a full recovery.
Anesthetic issues
You might develop an allergic reaction to the anesthetic used by the dentist, which will lead to discomfort and pain. Symptoms include swelling around the mouth and eyes, although these allergies are very rare. Pregnant women require an additional evaluation as they are more sensitive to anesthetics. Consultation of a doctor is recommended if in case of severe reactions or if in doubt.
Development of another cavity
Around the filling, another cavity might develop if a gap is not filled. Recurring pain is common, and another filling is needed.
Uneven bite
Along with constant pain, you might also notice that the filling makes it harder for you to bite properly. Another visit to the dentist may easily fix this problem or you may need a dental correction.
Eating after the procedure
The amount of time you have to wait until you can eat again depends on the type of filling. There are two types of fillings, and they have different requirements. Amalgam fillings are done with silver, and it usually takes about 24 hours for them to harden completely. You should wait at least one day before you can start chewing on the tooth that has been repaired.
The other type is composite fillings, which are more common in modern dental solutions. These will match the color of your tooth and harden right after the dentist uses a special UV light on your tooth. You can start eating after you leave the dentist’s office, but you might have to wait a couple of hours if you are still numb.
How to protect what you have
But best of all would be avoiding fillings in the first place, and good dental hygiene is the first and most important step to avoid cavities. We were told by dentists that you should verify that your toothpaste
- has acquired the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, ADA.
- contains fluoride
- covers any additional specific needs you may have and then you can freely
- choose your favorite taste
When these three requirements have been met, you only need to select your preferred taste. Below, you’ll find a selection of toothpastes with indicative prices.
| ADA Seal of Acceptance acquired toothpastes | Price range |
| Aim, Cavity Control Protection, 5,5 oz | 0,96$ – 2,93$ |
| Arm & Hammer Dental Care, 6,3 oz | 5,64$ – 6,99$ |
| Colgate Cavity Protection Fluoride, 6,0 oz | 2,04$ – 2,39$ |
| Crest Cavity Protection, 8,2 oz | 2,79$ – 6,33$ |
| Parodontax Clean Mint Daily Fluoride, 3,4 oz | 5,99$ – 7,09$ |
| PRO-SYS Mint Fluoride, 4,0 oz | 3,33$ |
| Quip Mint Anticavity, 4,6 oz | 5,00$ – 5,10$ |
| Sensodyne, 4,0 oz | 5,85$ – 7,25$ |
Triggers to Avoid
With sensitive teeth, you will notice specific triggers that will cause short episodes of uncomfortable sensations and pain. It’s particularly felt in the filled tooth and its surrounding area. There are many triggers for this sensitivity, and it often feels like a sudden pain that quickly comes and goes away.
Some of these triggers include:
- biting down when eating
- eating fruits and sugary foods
- drinking juices and coffee
- exposing the teeth to air when you breathe through the mouth
- cold foods and drinks
Avoid the triggers presented above to reduce the pain. After a couple of weeks, the sensitivity will go away on its own. You can resume eating and drinking your favorite products without carefully considering their temperature.
FAQ
What foods am I able to eat after the procedure?
You should avoid certain foods for at least one week after you come home from the clinic. Do not eat sticky, crunchy, or sugary foods. They can damage your teeth. Acidic and very hot or cold beverages will have the same effect and generate severe pain and discomfort.
You can try healthy foods like bananas or fruit smoothies served at room temperature. In the case of hot foods, a lukewarm vegetable soup is just ideal. These foods won’t trigger your sensitivity issues and also avoid the risk of damaging your filling.
You should also bite and chew slowly, as you don’t want to damage your teeth by forcing them. If the pain and sensitivity persist after a couple of weeks, seek the help of your professional dentist. They will solve your problem.
