Adults only (18+)

How to Relieve Tooth Pain After a Filling

Tooth fillings are a routine dental treatment used to repair cavities and protect the structure of a tooth. While most people feel relief after the procedure, it is not uncommon to experience some degree of sensitivity or discomfort once the numbness wears off. This pain can be mild and short-lived or slightly more noticeable, especially when eating or drinking. Understanding why it happens and how to relieve it can help you feel more comfortable as your tooth adjusts to the repair.

Tooth pain after a filling is often part of the normal healing process. In most cases, the discomfort will settle within a few days. However, there are some situations where the pain may signal a problem that needs attention, so it is important to know what is typical and when to speak to your dentist.

Why Tooth Pain Happens After a Filling

When a dentist fills a tooth, they clean out the decay and place a filling material such as composite resin or amalgam into the space. This process can irritate the nerve inside the tooth, especially if the cavity was deep or close to the pulp. As a result, the tooth may become temporarily sensitive to temperature, pressure or sweetness.

Another reason for discomfort could be the bite. If the filling is slightly too high, it can cause extra pressure when you bite down. This uneven bite can lead to soreness in the tooth or surrounding area. In some cases, particularly with silver amalgam fillings, the material can expand or contract slightly in response to temperature, which might increase sensitivity at first.

Managing Sensitivity at Home

If your tooth feels tender or sensitive after a filling, using a desensitising toothpaste can help calm the nerves. These toothpastes contain ingredients that block the transmission of pain signals from the tooth surface to the nerve. Brushing with one regularly, using a soft-bristled brush and lukewarm water, can gently reduce symptoms over time.

Avoiding very hot, cold or sugary foods and drinks can also help prevent triggering discomfort while your tooth is settling. Choose softer foods that require less chewing, especially in the first day or two, and try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth if possible.

Using Pain Relief Safely

Over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be effective for easing mild pain or inflammation after a filling. These are usually well tolerated and can be taken according to the instructions on the packaging. If the pain is more than mild or lasts longer than expected, it is best to seek advice rather than continue with painkillers alone.

Do not apply aspirin or other medicines directly to the gum or tooth, as this can irritate or damage the soft tissues in your mouth.

How Long Does Pain After a Filling Last

In most cases, any post-filling sensitivity or soreness will improve within a few days and disappear completely within a week or two. Composite fillings tend to settle more quickly than metal ones, although every mouth is different. If you notice that the pain is getting worse rather than better, or if it lingers for more than two weeks, contact your dentist. It could mean the filling needs to be adjusted or that the tooth requires further treatment.

When to See Your Dentist

You should return to your dentist if the filled tooth is sensitive when you bite down or if it feels like the filling is too high. A simple adjustment may be all that is needed to restore comfort. If the pain becomes sharp, throbbing or constant, or if you experience swelling, fever or a bad taste in your mouth, you may have developed an infection or inflammation of the pulp. This would require professional assessment and possibly further treatment such as a root canal.

Even if the discomfort seems minor, it is always worth checking in if something does not feel quite right.

Preventing Further Discomfort

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to protect the area around the filling and avoid future problems. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly and seeing your dentist for check-ups will help prevent decay from returning. If you are prone to tooth grinding, especially at night, your dentist may suggest wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and fillings.

Being gentle with your mouth in the days after a filling and giving the tooth time to settle can make a big difference in how quickly it heals.

Final Thought

Mild tooth pain after a filling is quite normal and usually resolves within a short period. Sensitive toothpaste, soft foods and gentle care can all help ease symptoms while the tooth adjusts. If your discomfort persists, worsens or causes concern, do not hesitate to contact your dentist. Most issues are simple to correct and can bring quick relief. With the right care and attention, your newly filled tooth should soon feel strong, comfortable and pain-free.