Dental fillings are a restorative dental solution that uses resin composite to fill in cavities in your teeth after clearing out the infected part. The procedure of filling cavities is routine for every dental office and typically not complicated. However, some patients might experience some tooth sensitivity after it. In this article, we share tips on managing tooth sensitivity after dental fillings.
Managing Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Fillings
Before we talk about ways to manage tooth sensitivity after dental fillings, let us discuss how much sensitivity is normal after the procedure. Tooth and gum sensitivity for a couple of days immediately after the procedure is not uncommon. It may be caused by an anesthetic injection and techniques used by your dentist during the procedure.
However, if the tooth and gum sensitivity are severe and linger for more than a couple of days, they might be caused by a poorly fitted filling, an allergic reaction to a filling material, inflammation underneath the filling, or pulpitis. Contact your dentist immediately if you notice any abnormal teeth sensitivity after a dental filling. Not getting your filling redone in time can lead to more severe issues like the need for a root canal treatment or other complicated and costly procedures.
Tips for managing tooth sensitivity include:
Use a Soft-Bristled Brush
Hard-bristled toothbrushes can further irritate the enamel of your teeth and your gums. Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush until the sensitivity goes away.
Use a Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Most toothpaste, gels, and mouthwashes designed to relieve sensitivity are available without a prescription. You can ask your dentist to recommend the brands of such products that are most suitable for your case. Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth twice a day and mouthwash after meals.
Brush and Floss Gently
Maintaining proper dental hygiene after a filling procedure is essential. However, make sure that you do not brush or floss too harshly at the procedure site to avoid irritating your newly treated tooth and gums.
Avoid Hard Foods
Hard and crunchy foods require you to bite and chew with additional force. Furthermore, the sharp edges of foods like crackers or chips can cause additional irritation to the gums and the teeth’s enamel. Leave such snacks after the sensitivity has gone away.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures of Foods and Drinks
Tooth sensitivity will most likely be intensified by consuming very hot or very cold foods and beverages. Stick to room-temperature foods and drinks to avoid experiencing sharp pain until your tooth sensitivity goes away.
Avoid Acidic and Sugary Food and Drinks
Sugar and acid can also irritate a sensitive tooth, leading to more pain and discomfort. Try to avoid overly sugary foods—like candies, ice cream, and sodas—and foods containing acid—like citrus fruits and juices, pineapple, alcohol, and coffee.
Rinse Your Mouth After Meals
Do not let acids and sugars contained in food and drinks linger on your teeth and intensify sensitivity. Use a mouthwash for sensitive teeth or lukewarm water to remove food residue immediately after meals.
Make an Appointment for a Sensitivity Treatment
Consult your dentist and choose a tooth sensitivity treatment available at your dental office that is suitable for your case. In many cases, such treatments can significantly strengthen your teeth’s enamel and reduce sensitivity.
Try Over-the-Counter Pain Medication
Typically, a dental filling procedure that goes well should not cause any unbearable tooth sensitivity that would require you to take painkillers. If this is the case for you, we strongly recommend going to the dentist as soon as possible. However, while you wait for your appointment, you can try over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, to relieve the pain. Make sure to adhere to the instructions and do not exceed the recommended dose.
Is It Tooth Sensitivity?
Sometimes, patients can mistake their filling being too high for tooth sensitivity. If your filling is on a higher level than the rest of your tooth, your bite might feel uncomfortable, as the filling prevents your lower and upper teeth from fitting together as they used to. This feeling can go away on its own in a couple of days or might require adjustments. Regardless, this is different from tooth sensitivity, which usually manifests as pain.
Make an Appointment with a Reliable Dentist
La Mirada Dental One provides the services of a highly qualified restorative dentist. Do not hesitate to make an appointment with our office today to restore the health and function of your teeth. We look forward to your visit.