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If you've recently had a tooth filling, you may be wondering what to expect during the days and weeks following the procedure. Whether you visited your dentist in Calgary or found a dentist near you, it’s important to understand what happens after your appointment to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal care for your dental health. Tooth fillings are a common dental procedure designed to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay, but like any treatment, they come with potential side effects that can vary from patient to patient. In this blog, we’ll discuss the common side effects after getting a tooth filling and offer tips on how to manage them.
One of the most common side effects of a new tooth filling is increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. This sensitivity may be particularly noticeable in the first few days after the procedure, as the filling settles into place.
Why does it happen? After the filling is placed, your tooth may experience slight irritation from the procedure, as well as from the material used to fill the cavity. Composite (white) fillings, in particular, can sometimes cause temporary sensitivity.
How to manage it:
Avoid consuming overly hot or cold foods and drinks for the first few days.
Opt for lukewarm or room temperature foods to reduce discomfort.
If sensitivity persists or worsens beyond a few weeks, contact your dentist near you to rule out any issues with the filling.
It’s normal to experience some tenderness or mild pain around the area of the tooth where the filling was placed. This discomfort is typically mild and subsides after a few days. However, it can feel a bit like a toothache, especially if the filling is placed near the nerve.
Why does it happen? The area around the cavity and the nerve may have been irritated during the filling procedure, leading to inflammation. It can take some time for the tooth and surrounding tissues to fully heal.
How to manage it:
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain or discomfort.
If the pain continues for more than a week or becomes severe, you may need to revisit your dentist in Calgary for an evaluation. There could be an issue with the filling or an underlying problem with the tooth.
After a filling, you may notice that your bite feels slightly off. This is particularly common if the filling is in a molar or a place where your teeth come into contact when chewing. A filling that is too high can cause discomfort when you bite down.
Why does it happen? Sometimes, fillings are not perfectly shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth. If your filling is slightly high, it can throw off your bite, causing discomfort when chewing.
How to manage it:
If you experience discomfort when biting down, contact your dentist right away. A quick adjustment can be made to ensure the filling fits properly and doesn’t affect your bite.
Most dentists in Calgary or any dentist near you will be able to address this issue promptly.
Gum irritation or mild swelling near the filling site is another common side effect, especially if the cavity was close to the gum line. This can result from the dental instruments used or the material itself.
Why does it happen? During the filling process, your dentist may have had to work very close to the gums, which could cause temporary irritation or swelling. Additionally, some materials used for fillings can cause mild gum inflammation.
How to manage it:
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Gently brush your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further irritation.
If the swelling doesn’t improve after a few days or if you experience severe discomfort, it’s a good idea to check in with your dentist in Calgary to ensure everything is healing as it should.
Though rare, some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the materials used in their tooth filling. This can result in redness, itching, or swelling at the filling site or the gums.
Why does it happen? Certain filling materials, such as amalgam (silver) fillings or the resins in composite fillings, can cause allergic reactions in a small number of patients. If you have a known sensitivity or allergy to metals or dental materials, it’s important to inform your dentist before the procedure.
How to manage it:
If you notice signs of an allergic reaction, contact your dentist near you immediately. They may need to replace the filling with an alternative material that is more suitable for your needs.
While most side effects are mild and temporary, there are situations where you should seek professional advice:
In these cases, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist in Calgary or the nearest dental office for guidance. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure your dental health is fully restored.
Tooth fillings are a routine and effective solution to restore decayed or damaged teeth, but the recovery period can come with some temporary side effects. Understanding what to expect after your procedure will help you feel more prepared and informed. By managing sensitivity, bite discomfort, and gum irritation, you can promote faster healing and ensure that your filling lasts for years to come.
If you have any concerns or experience persistent side effects, don't hesitate to reach out to your dentist near you. Whether you’re getting a tooth filling in Calgary or elsewhere, your dentist will be able to provide the care you need for a successful recovery.
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