Are Your Teeth Supposed To Hurt After Fillings
Getting a dental filling is a common procedure that many people undergo. It is a way to repair a decayed, cracked, or broken tooth, restoring it to its natural shape and function. However, after the filling, you may experience some discomfort or pain. This raises the question, are your teeth supposed to hurt after fillings?
Reasons Why Teeth Hurt After Fillings
There are several reasons why your teeth may hurt after getting a filling. One of the most common reasons is that the filling may be too high, causing your teeth to come together in an unnatural way. This can put pressure on your tooth and cause pain.
Another reason why your teeth may hurt after a filling is that the filling material may irritate the nerve endings in your tooth. This can cause sensitivity or pain, especially when you eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet.
Additionally, if the decay in your tooth was deep, the filling may have reached the nerve, causing inflammation and pain. This is more common with large fillings or when decay is close to the nerve.
How Long Should Pain Last After Fillings?
Pain after a filling can vary in duration and intensity. In most cases, the pain should subside within a few days to a week. However, if the pain persists or becomes worse, it is important to contact your dentist.
If the pain is severe or accompanied by swelling or fever, it may be a sign of an infection. Your dentist may need to perform additional treatment, such as a root canal, to address the issue.
How To Relieve Pain After Fillings
If you are experiencing pain after getting a filling, there are several things you can do to help relieve the discomfort:
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed by your dentist.
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area for 10-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that may put pressure on your tooth.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything hot, cold, or sweet that may trigger sensitivity or pain.
- Use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to help alleviate discomfort.
Preventing Pain After Fillings
While some discomfort after getting a filling is normal, there are steps you can take to help prevent pain:
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily to help prevent decay.
- Get regular dental check-ups and cleanings to catch decay early and prevent it from progressing.
- Discuss any concerns or questions you have with your dentist before getting a filling.
- Follow your dentist's instructions after getting a filling, such as avoiding hard or sticky foods and taking any prescribed medication.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is common to experience some discomfort or pain after getting a dental filling. However, if the pain persists or becomes worse, it is important to contact your dentist. There are several things you can do to alleviate the discomfort, such as taking pain medication, applying a cold compress, and avoiding certain foods and drinks. By practicing good oral hygiene and getting regular check-ups, you can help prevent the need for fillings and avoid pain in the future.