What to Do if Your Filling Causes You Pain
Posted on 11/15/2024 by Life Long Dental |
 Dental fillings are a common restoration dentistry procedure used to repair damaged teeth and prevent further decay. While fillings are generally considered safe and effective, they can occasionally cause pain or discomfort. If you're experiencing pain from a filling, it's important to know what to do and when to seek professional help.
Causes of Filling Pain
There are several reasons why a filling might cause pain. These include:
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Sensitivity to temperature: Newly placed fillings can be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures for a few days or weeks. This is because the filling material conducts heat and cold differently than your natural tooth structure. |
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Irritation of the pulp: In some cases, the filling may be placed too close to the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. This can irritate the pulp and cause pain. |
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High filling: If the filling is placed too high, it can put pressure on your bite, causing discomfort or pain when you chew. |
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Fractured filling: Over time, fillings can wear down or fracture, especially if you have large fillings or grind your teeth. This can cause sharp pain, especially when biting down. |
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Infection: In rare cases, bacteria can get under the filling and cause an infection. This can cause severe pain, swelling, and even fever. |
What to Do if Your Filling Hurts
If your filling is causing you pain, the first thing you should do is schedule an appointment with your dentist. They will be able to examine your tooth and determine the cause of the pain. Depending on the cause, they may recommend one of the following treatments:
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Smoothing the filling: If the filling is high, your dentist may be able to smooth it down to relieve pressure on your bite. |
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Replacing the filling: If the filling is fractured or causing irritation, your dentist may need to replace it with a new one. |
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Root canal: If the pulp is infected, you may need a root canal to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth. |
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Extraction: In rare cases, if the tooth is too badly damaged, your dentist may need to extract it. |
Home Remedies for Filling Pain
While you're waiting to see your dentist, there are a few things you can do at home to relieve the pain from your filling:
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Over-the-counter pain relievers: Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce pain and inflammation. |
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Cold compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce swelling and pain. |
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Saltwater rinse: Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth several times a day. This can help to clean the area around the filling and reduce inflammation. |
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Avoid chewing on the affected side: Until you see your dentist, try to avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the painful filling is located. This can help to prevent further irritation and damage. |
Preventing Filling Pain
There are a few things you can do to help prevent filling pain:
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Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay. |
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See your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help to catch cavities early, before they require fillings. |
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Avoid biting on hard objects: Don't use your teeth to open bottles, crack nuts, or chew on ice. This can damage your fillings and your teeth. |
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Wear a nightguard: If you grind your teeth at night, wear a nightguard to protect your fillings from damage. |
Conclusion
If you're experiencing pain from a filling, don't hesitate to see your dentist. They can diagnose the cause of the pain and recommend the best course of treatment. By following the tips above, you can help to prevent filling pain and keep your smile healthy and comfortable.
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