Tooth decay can cause tooth nerve pain, causing discomfort and sensitivity. Additionally, there are several other ways to relieve tooth nerve pain faster. This includes over-the-counter pain relievers, local anesthetic gel, or prescription medications. If these treatments do not relieve your symptoms, your dentist may perform a deep filling to restore tooth structure and reduce pain. A dental filling is usually a simple procedure that uses dental materials to repair damaged tooth structure and restore its function. Materials range from silver and gold to porcelain and composite materials. How long it takes for a deep filling to settle depends on the nature of the process, the materials used, and the severity of the cavity.
This dental procedure rarely causes any pain or sensitivity and will resolve on its own. Therefore, you can expect to feel a mild toothache after receiving a filling. The discomfort will subside within 1-2 weeks, but in some cases it may continue and the condition may worsen.
Also read: Front and back tooth fillings: 7 things to consider
What will I feel after getting a filling in a deep tooth?
Before answering the given title, let’s learn more about dental fillings. A filling is a simple procedure in which a decayed or damaged part of a tooth is removed and replaced with a durable material. The filling material is molded into the tooth and protects it from the risk of infection. Mainly metal, resin, porcelain, and combinations of these. If the treatment is successful, the tooth will be saved and ready to function properly again. Tooth pain after a filling is normal and will resolve without discomfort. After the numbness caused by the anesthesia given during surgery wears off, the following symptoms may appear:
- When a filled tooth is removed, the teeth around the filled area will become painful.
- Tooth sensitivity from sweet, hot, or cold foods and drinks will resolve itself.
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Pain in the gums under a filled tooth.
- My teeth become sensitive when I brush my teeth with a toothbrush.
Why do dental fillings cause toothache?
In some cases, most people experience tooth pain after a filling. Many factors contribute to this discomfort, and it can appear and disappear unexpectedly. They include:
- Drinking cold cold drinks, ice cream, or popsicles can make your tooth hurt after filling.
- In some cases, you may experience pain when you breathe through your mouth as cold air hits your treated tooth.
- Temperature sensitivity after a tooth has a filling can also cause the tooth to tolerate hot drinks. Drinking coffee or tea after treatment can cause extreme pain.
- Ingesting sweet foods can damage the treated tooth and cause toothache.
- Additionally, acidic foods and drinks can be bad for your teeth.
- The pressure of chewing hard foods can also be severe.
Also read: 13 causes of swollen gums after tooth extraction and how to relieve it
Why do dental fillings cause sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity after filling treatment does not occur suddenly. Although it will subside over time, in some cases, tooth sensitivity after a filling must be treated immediately. Possible causes of tooth pain after a filling include:
1. Irritability of nerves
Deep fillings are done when the cavity is close to the tooth’s nerve, which can later cause severe tooth pain. This pain is because deep fillings can damage the nerves inside the tooth. Teeth normally have an outer protective layer of cementum and enamel. Protects the tooth nerve from external factors. Once the nerve is reached, the deep filling irritates the nerve and causes extreme inflammation. However, over time, the neuralgia worsens and the sensation disappears. It would be helpful if you could be patient for a few weeks. Once the damaged nerve has fully healed, the filled tooth and surrounding teeth will feel like they are in good condition.
Also Read: 5 Abscess Tooth Stages You Should Know About
2. Malocclusion
An important aspect of a correct fitting is that the placement of the tooth filling perfectly matches your bite. If the material doesn’t fit properly, it can significantly affect your bite pattern and cause your teeth to become sensitive for some reason. If the filling is above tooth level, it can put extra pressure on you when you chew food. The strong forces placed on a tooth with a filling can cause toothache and discomfort. In addition, even if you eat after the filling procedure, you are unlikely to feel any sensitivity. However, the bite will heal on its own after a few weeks. Sensitivity can increase if the filling does not correct itself. A visit to your dentist will help you file down the filling.
3. Increase in pulpitis
pulpitis This is a condition in which the pulp inside the tooth becomes inflamed. It can cause severe sensitivity and can seriously damage your teeth. Although minor dental fillings do not cause pulpitis, in some cases they can. If your tooth is broken or cracked due to injury, trauma, or an accident, you may experience inflammation of the pulp. Another reason may be a deep cavity affecting the inner layer of the pulp. Also, in some cases, if the affected tooth has had several previous filling treatments, it can lead to severe pulpitis. This dental problem can be effectively corrected with root canal treatment.
Also read: 4 common mistakes you can make when it comes to oral hygiene
How long does it take for a deep filling to settle?
Certain important factors influence the time it takes for deep fillings to stabilize after dental surgery. These may include the dental material used, the severity of the cavity, the size of the hole, etc. Deep fillings are typically performed to fill large cavities in affected teeth when the hole is deep and close to the pulp. Additionally, the time it takes for a deep filling to set also depends on the material used for the treatment. clinical trial Dentists say they typically recommend 24 hours for fillings to achieve the desired firmness and stability. Composite fillings cure quickly when exposed to UV light.
Amalgam fillings, on the other hand, take almost 24 hours to settle properly. The porcelain filling is molded into the tooth and then fixed within 24 hours. Be careful not to bite the food on the sides of the filling.
Also read: Symptoms of tooth infection spreading throughout the body
How can I relieve tooth pain after a filling?
Follow these effective home remedies to instantly reduce tooth pain and sensitivity after a filling.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- After consulting your dentist, apply an oral numbing ointment to the painful tooth.
- Brush your teeth in a circular motion using a soft-bristled brush designed for sensitive teeth.
- Floss once a day, very gently to avoid damaging your gums.
- Avoid foods and drinks that are acidic, too hot, or too cold as they can cause severe tooth sensitivity.
- Always wash your mouth after eating or drinking anything to prevent enamel erosion.
- Avoid using tooth whitening products as they can worsen tooth sensitivity.
Read also: Cavities in the front teeth: causes, treatment and prevention
When should I talk to my dentist about tooth pain or tooth sensitivity after a deep filling?
There is no need to worry if you experience mild toothache or sensitivity to cold after filling treatment. You can treat a painful tooth with home remedies. However, if the pain or sensitivity lasts for many days or begins to get worse, has difficulty chewing or opening your mouth, or is accompanied by redness, irritation, fever, or extreme throbbing pain, try to remove it as soon as possible. You should seek professional help. Schedule an appointment with a licensed dentist near your area and receive effective treatment right away. Your dentist will thoroughly examine your dental filling to see if there are any problems and provide appropriate treatments and medications to reduce pain. Don’t delay; it can make your dental problem even worse and cause excruciating tooth pain.
conclusion
Fillings are an effective and safe dental treatment for cavities. Sensitivity may persist even after dental fillings, so proper aftercare is very necessary to prevent future damage. You should floss and brush your teeth daily, avoid sugary foods, and wash your mouth after eating and drinking. Tooth sensitivity and tooth pain after a filling can be expected and familiar. However, if the pain or sensitivity becomes severe, it is important to contact your dentist for immediate treatment.
FAQ
Why does my tooth filling hurt after a few months?
The reason is usually that the deep filling exposes the nerves and irritates them. The result is pain and inflammation.
How can I relieve tooth pain after a filling?
With proper care, you can relieve tooth nerve pain after a filling. Eating a soft diet, applying medicated ointments, taking oral painkillers, and using ice packs can help.
How long should I wait before eating after filling the compound?
It is important to wait almost 24 hours before eating anything complex. Because of this, the composite material takes longer to harden and is fully affixed to the entire tooth.
How long after filling can I brush my teeth?
Aftercare for fillings is essential to ensure their longevity. Therefore, avoid brushing at first for proper maintenance. However, you can resume gentle brushing after 24 hours.
How much does my tooth hurt after I get a filling?
The pain usually subsides within a week because the tooth is sensitive after treatment. Sensitivity should subside in 2 to 4 weeks.