Tips to Handle Tooth Sensitivity After Getting Filling Procedure Done

Cavities or dental caries result from tooth decay. The affected tooth start developing holes. Dental fillings are recommended by dentist to treat cavities. The dentist drills out the decayed part and covers the hole using fillings. Though the process is safe and effective, some tend to experience discomfort after their anesthesia effect wears off.

Get in touch with your dentist when your tooth filling pain gets extreme. If you are looking for a dentist at Lake Jackson, schedule an appointment with All Smiles Family Dental Care. They have an excellent track record of providing quality dental service in Lake Jackson. Their team of skilled dentists would examine your tooth and check for complications.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Sometimes patients experience temporary sudden pain that is triggered by cold foods or drinks, hot drinks, sugary foods, acidic food and drinks or biting down when eating. It is normal to face some sensitivity for up to 4 weeks. In some cases, there arises an underlying complication which needs medical attention.

Irritated nerve: Short-term sensitivity results when the nerve inside the damaged tooth is inflamed. The sensitivity goes away after the nerve heals.

Pulpitis: This occurs when heat emitted during drilling inflames the pulp. In cases where the dentist doesn’t remove the entire decayed portion, the pulp of the infected tooth gets affected. With reversible pulpitis, the pulp heals over time while with irreversible pulpitis, root canal treatment would have to be done.

Incorrect bite alignment: If the filling doesn’t line up with the other teeth, bite problems results since you exert extra pressure on the affected teeth during biting. This leads to severe sensitivity.

Loose older fillings: Fillings can wear out over time. If an old filling is loose or breaks, a person experiences sensitivity and pain.

Referred pain: It is natural to experience pain in the surrounding teeth. This is known as referred pain.

How to deal with sensitive teeth?

Dentists recommend the following to get rid of post-filling sensitivity.

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers like acitaminophen and ibuprofen
  • Refrain from consuming cold/ hot/acidic foods and drinks for a couple of weeks
  • Use desensitizing toothpaste
  • Gentle brushing with circular strokes
  • Floss once a day
  • Chew with the opposite side of the mouth

Mild sensitivity is expected to last 2 to 4 weeks. If these remedies don’t make the sensitivity any better or if the sensitivity is extreme, consult a dentist.

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