So, you've just gotten a filling, and you're feeling great! You're relieved to have that cavity taken care of, and you're looking forward to a healthy smile. But wait, a few days later, you start to experience some sensitivity or even pain. What's going on?
Don't worry, you're not alone. Post-filling problems are relatively common, and in most cases, they're nothing to worry about. However, it's important to know what to expect and what to do if you experience any discomfort.
Understanding Tooth Pain After a Filling
After a filling, it's normal to experience some sensitivity to cold, heat, or pressure. This is because the drilling process can irritate the nerve inside the tooth. In most cases, this sensitivity will subside within a few days or weeks.
However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it's important to contact your dentist as soon as possible:
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Severe pain that doesn't go away after a few days
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Pain that gets worse when you bite down
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Swelling in your face or gums
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Pus or discharge from the filling
These symptoms could indicate a more serious problem, such as an infection or a cracked tooth.
What to Do About Post-Filling Problems
If you're experiencing post-filling problems, here are a few things you can do:
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Take over-the-counter pain medication: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to relieve pain and inflammation.
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Use a cold compress: Apply a cold compress to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
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Avoid hard or sticky foods: These foods can put extra pressure on the filling and irritate the tooth.
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See your dentist: If your symptoms don't improve within a few days, or if you experience any of the more serious symptoms listed above, it's important to see your dentist as soon as possible.
Preventing Post-Filling Problems
There are a few things you can do to prevent post-filling problems:
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Choose a qualified dentist: Make sure your dentist is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA) and has experience placing fillings.
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Tell your dentist about any allergies or medical conditions: This will help your dentist choose the right type of filling material for you.
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Follow your dentist's instructions after the procedure: This includes taking any prescribed medication and avoiding certain foods and activities.
Conclusion
Dental fillings are a safe and effective way to restore damaged teeth. However, it's important to be aware of the possibility of post-filling problems. By following the tips above, you can help to prevent these problems and ensure a smooth recovery.
If you have any questions or concerns about post-filling problems, please don't hesitate to talk to your dentist. They will be happy to answer your questions and help you get the care you need.
Dentist Tigard, OR | Dental Blog - Lincoln Center Smiles Dr. Saklofsky has created an educational blog as a resource for our patients. If you like an article or the dental blog in general please share it to social media, then call (971) 317-9499 to make an appointment. Lincoln Center Smiles, 10500 SW Greenburg Rd, Suite 3, Portland, OR 97223-1406 | (503) 598-0898 | sakdental.com | 12/6/2024 | Related Phrases: dentist Tigard OR |
So, you've just gotten a filling, and you're feeling great! You're relieved to have that cavity taken care of, and you're looking forward to a healthy smile. But wait, a few days later, you start to experience some sensitivity or even pain. What's going on?