Fillings are a lifesaver when it comes to fixing cavities and protecting your teeth. They’re a key part of restorative dentistry, helping to restore damaged teeth to their natural shape and function. But what happens when those trusty fillings start to hurt?
While minor, occasional sensitivity is common and normal, consistent and severe dental pain is not. If you’re dealing with a nagging toothache, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Dr. Matthew Bridges can locate and treat the issue quickly, helping to restore comfort and function. So, give our Duncan, OK, restoration dentist a call at (580) 255-4880 to book a visit now!
If you’ve ever experienced pain or sensitivity after getting a filling, you’re not alone. It’s more common than you might think, and understanding the possible causes can help you take the next steps toward comfort.
Why Do Fillings Cause Pain?
First of all, a little tenderness right after getting a filling is totally normal. Your tooth just had some work done, so it’s adjusting to the new material.
This kind of discomfort usually fades within a few days. However, if the pain lingers or gets worse, it could be a sign of something more serious.
Common Reasons Why Your Fillings Might Hurt
Both old and new dental work can cause pain, which may be due to factors like:
A High Filling
If your filling sits a little too high, it can mess with your bite. This puts extra pressure on the tooth and can cause pain when chewing or even at rest. A quick adjustment by our Duncan, OK, dentist should fix the problem!
Tooth Sensitivity
Some fillings, especially those made of metal or composite resin, can cause increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. This sensitivity is usually temporary, but if it sticks around, let our Duncan, OK, dentist know.
Decay Under the Filling
Yes, cavities can sneak back under your fillings if bacteria find a way in. This can cause toothaches and even infections, so regular dental checkups with Dr. Bridges are key to catching any trouble early.
Cracked Filling
Over time, fillings can wear down or crack due to the constant pressure of chewing. A damaged restoration can expose your tooth to sensitivity and pain, making it important to get it repaired or replaced.
Pulpitis
Sometimes, the pulp (the soft, inside part of your tooth) becomes inflamed after restoration. This can happen if the decay was deep or if the tooth experienced trauma during the procedure. While mild pulpitis can heal on its own, severe cases might need additional treatment, like a root canal.
What Should You Do If Your Fillings Hurt?
If your dental work is causing you pain, don’t ignore it! The sooner you address the issue, the easier it will be to fix. Here’s what you can do:
Contact a Duncan, OK, Dentist
Dr. Bridges can evaluate the restoration and determine the cause of the discomfort. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple adjustment.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing in the morning and at night can help keep bacteria away from your fillings and prevent further issues. Don’t forget to use a tongue scraper! This tool is 75% effective at removing bacteria on the tongue. This is significantly better than a toothbrush, which only removes about 40% of tongue microbes.
Avoid Triggers
Certain factors can trigger dental pain. So, stay away from extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods that might irritate the tooth.
Over-the-Counter Relief
If the pain is mild, an over-the-counter pain reliever or a toothpaste formulated for sensitivity might help until you can see Dr. Bridges.
Painful Fillings? Get Help at Chisholm Trail Smile Center
Restorative dentistry is all about giving your teeth the best possible care, so don’t hesitate to reach out if something doesn’t feel quite right. Contact our Duncan, OK, dentist at (580) 255-4880, or click here to request an appointment with Dr. Matthew Bridges.
