If you’re wondering how to relieve tooth pain after a filling, you’re not alone. It’s perfectly normal to experience some discomfort once the numbing wears off. Fortunately, there are a few dos and don’ts you can follow to manage the pain and speed up recovery.
What Can Aggravate Tooth Pain After a Filling?
Certain habits and foods can make your tooth pain worse after a dental filling. To keep discomfort to a minimum, try to avoid the following:
- Chewing on the filled side: Chewing tough or crunchy foods, especially on the side of the mouth with the filling, can put added pressure on the newly treated tooth and worsen pain.
- Eating acidic foods: Tomatoes, citrus fruits, pickles, coffee, and soda are all acidic and can irritate sensitive teeth after a filling. Try to avoid these until the sensitivity goes down.
- Extreme temperatures: Your tooth may be very sensitive to hot or cold. Avoid sipping hot tea or chewing ice, as sudden temperature changes can trigger pain in the affected area.
By staying mindful of what you eat and how you chew, you can reduce discomfort and help your filling settle in more comfortably.
How Can You Relieve Tooth Pain After Filling?
If you’re dealing with tooth pain after a filling, there are several simple remedies that can help ease the discomfort.
Over-The-Counter Pain Meds
Non-prescription pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are often effective in relieving tooth pain after a filling. Be sure to follow the directions on the label and take the medication with food to avoid stomach irritation.
Use an Ice Pack
Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the treated area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a thin cloth or towel to avoid frostbite or skin irritation. Try icing for 10 to 15 minutes at a time throughout the day..
Drink Cool Water
Avoid anything ice-cold, but drinking cool water can help soothe the area and flush away bacteria that might aggravate the sensitive tooth. This simple habit can offer gentle relief as your mouth heals.
How Much Pain Is Normal After a Tooth Filling?
Some soreness or mild sensitivity around the filled tooth is normal and should fade within a few days. However, if you’re feeling sharp, throbbing pain, or if the discomfort gets worse when chewing after several days, it could indicate a problem. In that case, you should consult a dental professional.
Weekend Dental Emergency Care Is Here To Help Relieve Tooth Pain After a Filling
If your pain feels more intense than expected or lasts longer than a few days, don’t wait for Monday to get help. Weekend Dental Emergency Care is open on Saturdays and Sundays and is ready to help people at one of our Utah office locations in the Salt Lake, Farmington, and Lehi areas. We know how to relieve tooth pain after a filling and can make sure there are no underlying issues causing the discomfort. Call us at 801-901-9729 or book an appointment online. We’re here to help you feel better fast!
