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Dental Tips: Reduce Tooth Pain After Filling When Chewing

After a dental filling, it is normal to fuss about all the tiny details that follow. But one thing that all who undergo fillings always experience is tooth sensitivity, especially after the procedure. Is it normal to feel tooth pain after filling when chewing? The answer lies in a myriad of conditions. But first, what is this procedure all about?

What is dental filling?

Just like the name suggests, dental filling treatments help fix cavities and holes in teeth. When you chew, grind, or eat, your teeth crush against each other. During this process, some very minute parts of them chip off due to friction. These small gaps in your teeth’s outer surface can hold food particles.

If you do not maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing, flossing and undergoing dental checkups regularly, bacteria can act on these food particles. Over time, this introduces rot, and the tooth starts to decay. The outer shell of the teeth, i.e., the enamel, forms a hole that steadily eats up until it reaches the pulp or the root.

Hence, you would require a dental filling to cover this hole; otherwise, it can be an entry point for infection and lead to further complications like pulpitis, gum disease, and even loss of the tooth.

But even with a dental filling, some people still experience sensitivity. Why do you still feel tooth pain after filling when chewing?

Tooth sensitivity after dental filling

During the dental filling, the dentist removes the decaying matter from the tooth with the use of a drill. In order to reduce pain and smooth this procedure, the dentist administers a local anesthetic.

Consequently, it is normal to feel numb around the affected area for some time after the procedure. However, when this effect wears off, you can expect a bit of sensation on the tooth. This is because the teeth are still tender from the operation and have yet to heal properly.

Common sensations you can feel include:

A sharp sensation when you take in hot or cold foods and liquids.
Discomfort when brushing or flossing.
Tenderness within and around the gum tissue of the affected tooth.
Sensations when you grind, chew, or clench your teeth.

Nonetheless, we advise that you consult your dentist if you feel tooth pain after filling when chewing.

What are the causes of sensitivity after dental fillings?

Tooth sensitivity after filling can happen due to several reasons:

Uneven Teeth: Sometimes, a filled tooth can be taller than other teeth. Here, this causes unevenness in the bite and might cause sensitivity in the taller tooth.
Pulp Irritation: During the dental filling procedure, the dentist uses a drill to remove the decaying matter from the tooth. If the cavity is too deep, this might cause irritation of your pulp and lead to sensitivity.
Allergic Reactions: Generally, there are a host of dental filling materials you can use to fill a cavity. From porcelain to composite resin, your dentist can choose the one that suits your dental needs. However, the introduction of these materials to your teeth can cause certain allergic reactions and irritate the nerve endings. That is why it is important to discuss these with the dentist during the consultation.
Pulpitis: This refers to the inflammation of the pulp. It occurs when bacteria get into the pulp that supplies nutrients to the tooth and houses the blood vessels and nerves. It can also occur if the teeth experience trauma, either because of an accident or a blow.

In the case of pulpitis, we have two types: reversible and irreversible pulpitis. In reversible pulpitis, you can take antibiotics to fight the infection, and the pulp heals naturally over time. Conversely, you might need a root canal treatment to restore the tooth for irreversible pulpitis.

Now that you know why you feel tooth pain after filling when chewing let us see how we can reduce tooth sensitivity.

Ways to reduce tooth sensitivity after filling

You can reduce tooth sensitivity by doing any or all of the following:

Avoid hot or cold meals and liquids that can cause sensitivity.
Use a desensitizing toothpaste.
Brush and floss with caution around the affected tooth.
Chew away from the sensitive tooth.
Take pain relievers.

Remember that if you feel prolonged tooth pain after filling when chewing, you should consult your dentist. Early detection is the key to solving pulpitis or other dental complications.

Pain-Free Smiles at Smiles on Yonge

Yes, we offer quality dental fillings and aftercare treatment at our dental office in Richmond. Our experienced and skilled dentists are more than happy to hear about your dental concerns and address your questions concerning the treatment. In a comfortable and serene environment, we make your wellbeing our priority.

Whether you experience tooth pain after filling when chewing or you are in need of a root canal treatment, we have got you covered.