Is Your Tooth Sensitive After Filling? Causes and Treatment Tips

Dental care

Most people experience tooth pain or sensitivity after getting dental fillings. It is quite natural because of the steps involved in the procedure. The tooth is typically reshaped using a dental burr or other dental instruments, and sometimes, local anesthesia is administered. The tooth pain, sensitivity, and general discomfort gradually go away over a period of days. There’s nothing to worry about in that situation. That is why learning the possible causes of tooth pain after getting dental fillings are very important. You can determine if the pain is natural, or if it’s something that your dentist needs to know about.

This article will talk about the possible causes of tooth pain and sensitivity after dental fillings. We’ll also provide tips on how to treat teeth sensitivity and tooth pain. We’ll cover the importance of cleaning and sterilizing the dental tools, and how they play a significant role in your overall oral health. If you’re interested in learning more about the best sterilization machines for dental tools and accessories, you can visit Melag Autoclave’s online store by clicking on the link provided.

To better understand why the tooth becomes sensitive after filling, we must have ample knowledge of the procedure. That way, we can identify if the pain is natural or some complication. We’ll talk about the procedure first; then we’ll cover the different types of dental fillings. Remember that there are many possible causes of tooth pain, not always from dental work. Factors like tooth decay and gum problems should be taken into consideration. So, without further ado, let’s start with the procedure.

 

Consultation and Planning

The initial part of the process involves the physical examination of your mouth. This step is the best way for your dentist to formulate the best course of action, depending on the severity of the case. X-rays typically follow so that your dentist can get thorough visuals of your teeth. The typical causes why dental fillings are required are:

As soon as the dentist identifies the extent of the damage that needs to be repaired, the actual dental filling procedure comes next.

 

Dental Filling Procedure

  • Local anesthesia is administered
  • The affected area or tooth is reshaped by removing the decay or damage using a dental burr
  • The tooth is smoothed as best as possible
  • Abrasive gel is used for polishing
  • The filling is prepared to match natural teeth colour
  • The filling is applied
  • Additional polishing and smoothing are required to ensure quality

If the case is mild, the dentist will apply sedation instead of local anesthesia. However, your dentist will discuss the options first.

 

Tooth Pain and Sensitivity Causes after Filling

  • Loss of Enamel: The dental burr works similarly to the filing, which means, the dental enamel is heavily affected during the process. The dental enamel is the thin layer of covering on the surface of the tooth. During the reshaping step, it is significantly reduced. The result can sometimes expose the roots, which causes the tooth to feel sensitive.

 

  • Receding Gums: Receding gums is a health condition where the gums get thinner than normal. And the worst part of it is, gums do not regenerate. It is more likely that you have receding gums even before the dental procedure took place. That’s why after getting the filling, your teeth feel sensitive.

 

Other Possible Problems That May Cause Tooth Pain and Sensitivity

  • Damaged filling
  • Poor application of dental filling
  • Undetected infection
  • Undetected damage

Keeping the dental tools clean and sterilised also play a significant role in the overall process. There will be a risk of infection, even if the procedure went well if the tools used are not properly cleaned and sterilised. It should be washed thoroughly and sterilised in an autoclave to maximise the killing of germs and bacteria.

 

Dental Fillings Aftercare Tips

  • Avoid eating solid food within twenty-four hours following the dental filling procedure. The filling may fall off or get damaged.
  • Avoid eating sticky and hard food for at least two days.
  • Avoid cold or hot food and drinks.
  • Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Do not floss near the area where the fillings are applied for at least two days.
  • Do not chew using the tooth with fillings after two to three days.

 

For Pain and Sensitivity:

In case you feel tooth pain, sensitivity, or discomfort after the procedure, you can try these things out:

  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Apply a cold compress for twenty minutes on the affected area at least twice a day.
  • Apply topical pain relievers on your face where you feel the pain.
  • Prop your head up before sleeping.
  • Use fluoride toothpaste when brushing.
  • Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash.

 

These are the general aftercare steps you can try at home if you encounter tooth pain and discomfort after getting your dental fillings. But keep in mind that the tooth pain is normal and should go away within a day or so. It is natural to feel the pain, so there’s no need to worry. However, if the pain didn’t go away even after trying any of the tips we mentioned above, it would be best if you go to your dentist. You may be at risk of dental work complications. The best thing to do is to have your tooth examined so that your dentist can provide the best method of treatment.

 

Bottom Line

Tooth becomes sensitive after filling because of the loss of enamel. That’s the most common reason why you experience such a sensation. As we mentioned earlier, it is normal to feel sensitivity and tooth pain because of the procedure’s nature. Our teeth have roots and nerves that can sometimes be exposed because of the shaping, smoothing, and polishing. Whenever you feel pain or general discomfort, always remember that it is part of the procedure, and is completely normal.

In most cases, your dentist will explain what to expect after the procedure and provide the best treatment method. Your dentist may prescribe the right medicines to alleviate the pain expected to occur within the next few days after the filling is applied

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