Dental filling is one of the most widely used dental treatment methods to repair problems that damage the natural structure of the tooth, such as cavities, root canal treatment requirements, enamel erosion and fractures. This procedure restores the natural structure and function of the tooth by cleaning the damaged areas and filling them with durable materials.
Dental filling plays a major role in maintaining dental health, both functionally and aesthetically. However, some patients may feel pain or sensitivity in their filled teeth after the procedure. In this article, we will discuss in detail the causes of pain after dental filling, in which cases it occurs and treatment methods.
Why is there tooth sensitivity after filling?
While the dental filling procedure usually offers a safe and quick solution, some patients may feel pain or sensitivity in their teeth after the procedure. The main causes of this pain are as follows:
1. Nerve irritation
During dental filling, the nerve endings on the inside of the tooth can be irritated during the removal of caries. Especially after deep fillings, the tissues close to the nerves of the tooth may become sensitive. This can trigger pain. Over time, the nerves heal and the pain usually goes away within a few weeks.
2. Wrong bite alignment
After the filling process, if the filling is not aligned correctly, too much pressure can be applied on the tooth during chewing. This can lead to pain or sensitivity. When the filling height is not adjusted in accordance with the natural alignment of the teeth, pain can be felt due to the teeth not closing correctly. Dentists prevent this situation by adjusting the height of the filling in accordance with the other teeth.
3. Loose or broken filling
Fillings can become loose or broken over time. If the filling is not properly placed or has worn down over time, it can cause discomfort in the tooth. This can cause the inside of the tooth to become more sensitive. Your dentist should check the fit of the filling and make corrections if necessary.
4. Pulpitis (tooth inflammation)
Due to deep decay or the need for root canal treatment, the pulp tissue inside the tooth can become inflamed. This can cause pain and may require root canal treatment. In cases of irreversible pulpitis, the nerves of the tooth are damaged and root canal treatment is required.
5. Allergic reactions
Although rare, allergic reactions may develop against filling materials. Especially against amalgam fillings, some patients may show allergic reactions such as skin rashes or itching. This may cause pain in the filled tooth.
Types of pain after tooth filling
There can be different types of pain and sensitivity after a tooth filling. These usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can last longer.
1. Increased sensitivity with cold or heat
After a tooth filling, a sharp pain that lasts for a few seconds can be felt, especially after contact with hot and cold foods and drinks. This condition disappears over time as the nerves heal.
2. Pain when biting or chewing
When the filling is not aligned properly, there is pressure on the tooth, which can cause pain when chewing. Your dentist can intervene to align the tooth correctly.
3. Constant throbbing pain
Decays that affect the nerves of the tooth more deeply can create a constant throbbing sensation. In this case, root canal treatment usually provides an effective solution.
4. Reflected pain
The pain of the filled tooth may be reflected to the surrounding teeth. Usually, this type of pain goes away spontaneously within a few weeks.
How can you relieve sensitivity after tooth filling?
There are some methods that can be applied at home to relieve pain after tooth filling. These are as follows:
- Avoid Hot and Cold Foods: Avoiding extremely hot and cold foods for the first few days can reduce sensitivity.
- Chewing Caution: Avoid putting too much pressure on the filled tooth. Take care to eat using your other teeth.
- Sensitivity Relief Toothpaste: Toothpastes made for sensitive teeth can help relieve pain.
- Ice Compress: Applying an ice compress to the cheek where the tooth is can relieve pain.
- Using Painkillers: Painkillers recommended by your dentist can temporarily relieve pain.
Symptoms of a faulty dental filling
A faulty filling can lead to various problems after the procedure or over time. Early detection of faulty fillings helps prevent bigger problems. Symptoms of faulty dental fillings are as follows:
- Pain or discomfort when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet
- Cracks, fractures or discolouration of the filling
- Gum irritation or inflammation
- Trapping of food between the filling and the tooth
- Bad breath
When these symptoms are noticed, a dentist should be consulted.
Why do old dental fillings hurt?
Over time, old fillings can wear out and become unable to protect the tooth adequately. This can also cause pain. Cracking, loosening or the formation of new decays under the old fillings are the main causes of pain. It is important to check old fillings regularly. If an old filling causes pain, your dentist can treat it with a new filling.
How to relieve pain after dental filling?
To relieve pain after tooth filling:
- Avoiding Hot and Cold Foods: It is useful to stay away from extremely hot or cold foods, especially in the first days.
- Chewing Caution: Avoid applying too much pressure on the filled tooth and take care to use your other teeth while eating.
- Using Sensitivity Relief Toothpaste: Using toothpastes specifically designed for sensitive teeth can reduce sensitivity.
- Painkillers: Painkillers recommended by your dentist may temporarily relieve the pain.
Measures that can be taken at home to reduce toothache after filling
Pain can be alleviated with a few methods that can be applied at home:
- Sensitivity Relief Toothpaste: Using toothpastes specially designed for sensitive teeth helps reduce sensitivity.
- Tooth Brushing Technique: Gently brushing the teeth and gums at least twice a day in gentle, circular motions using a soft-bristled brush.
- Avoiding Hot and Cold Foods: It may be useful to avoid extremely hot or cold foods, especially in the early days.
- Salt Water Mouthwash: It helps prevent infection in the mouth.
- Ice Compress: Putting ice on a clean towel and applying a short-term compress to the cheek where the aching tooth is located helps to reduce the pain.
FAQs (frequently asked questions)
1. Why does a new tooth filling hurt?
Pain after a new tooth filling occurs during the process of the filling material adapting to the tooth. Irritation of nerve endings, improper placement of the filling or a history of tooth decay can trigger pain.
2. How long does pain last after filling?
Pain and sensitivity after filling usually lasts for a few days to a few weeks. However, if the pain is severe or lasts longer than a month, you may need to contact your dentist.
3. What to do for filled tooth pain?
To alleviate filled toothache, hot, cold and sweet foods should be avoided and should not apply too much pressure during chewing. In addition, desensitising toothpastes can be used and painkillers can be taken.
4. How to recognise an incorrectly placed filling?
An incorrectly placed filling usually manifests itself with symptoms such as pain during chewing, increased sensitivity, swelling around the tooth, or infection.
5. Why does a tooth with an old filling hurt?
Old fillings can wear down over time, crack, or new cavities can form in the tooth underneath. This can cause aching and pain.