What To Expect After A Tooth Filling

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Post Dental Fillings

A dental filling is one of the most commonly performed procedures done in dentistry to treat a cavity. We often receive questions from our patients on what they should expect after a tooth filling is done. "Can I eat immediately after a filling is done? Should I avoid certain foods? Will there be pain or sensitivity after the filling is done?"

In this blog post, we share some tips on what you should expect after you get your tooth filled here at Circle Dental!

Can I eat immediately after a filling is done?

That actually depends on the type of filling that was done for your tooth. Here at Circle Dental, we offer composite fillings which harden instantly after treatment is complete. 

So, yes! You can eat as soon as you leave our clinic.

Do I have to avoid certain foods?

The answer is yes, you have to avoid biting on hard foods such as ribs, bones, ice, nuts and hard candy.

However, this does not only apply to teeth that have been filled. Even a healthy tooth can chip or crack if you use them to bite on hard foods!

Will there be pain or sensitivity after a filling is done?

After your tooth filling has been done, you should feel little to no pain.

However, some patients experience tooth sensitivity post treatment. The sensitivity may come from cold food/drinks, air or pressure when biting down. This is completely normal and the sensitivity should go away anywhere in between two days to a month

You may consume over-the-counter painkillers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen to help relieve the sensitivity. However, if you do not notice any reduction in the sensitivity over time, please contact us.

Why are my gums sore after treatment?

Your gums may experience soreness if a rubber dam was used during your treatment.  Normally, a clamp is used to secure the rubber dam onto your tooth during the treatment and it has to be placed tightly in order to properly isolate the tooth. 

However, this commonly causes irritation on the gum area. Fret not, the soreness and irritation should go away in a couple of days after treatment!