A dental filling is a routine procedure in modern dentistry. Nevertheless, many patients complain of toothache immediately after treatment – a situation that can be worrying. But how long is the toothache after a filling in the affected area normal? What is the cause, and when should you contact your dentist?
Let's start from the beginning: What is a filling?
A dental filling is a material used to seal a decayed tooth. When a tooth is damaged by caries, the dentist must remove the affected area. Then, a filling is used as a dental care to fill the cavity.
Today, there are various materials available for dental fillings. One common material is composite resin, a tooth-colored plastic. This type of filling is unobtrusive and ideal for visible front teeth.
For the most demanding requirements, ceramic or gold inlays are ideal. These are made in a dental laboratory and bonded to the tooth. They are long-lasting, adapt well, and are well tolerated. However, ceramic fillings are more expensive, and health insurance usually doesn’t cover the costs.
Dental fillings have many advantages. They protect the filled tooth, prevent infections, and ensure beautiful tooth color and correct bite alignment. The procedure is usually painless and only requires one appointment.
Why does tooth pain after a filling occur?
Toothache after a filling is not uncommon—and in most cases, there is no cause for concern. However, symptoms such as tooth sensitivity or pain when biting can be unpleasant and worrying for those affected. The causes of toothache are varied, as the tooth adjusts and reacts differently to the procedure. Below, we present the most common reasons for post filling sensitivity and toothache in detail:
Irritation of the Dental Nerve
The most common cause of pain after a filling is irritation of the dental nerve (pulp). Especially if the caries has penetrated deep into the tooth, the dentist must remove a lot of damaged tissue. In doing so, they often come close to the dental nerve.
After treatment, the tooth becomes more sensitive to stimuli such as cold, heat, sweet foods, or pressure. This sensitivity is usually temporary and subsides on its own within a few days to weeks.
An Excessively High Bite
If the filling protrudes above the natural level of the tooth, this can result in a “high bite.” This means that the treated tooth hits the opposing tooth earlier than the others when chewing or biting. This excessive pressure can lead to pressure pain or tension in the jaw.
The good news: An overbite can be quickly and easily detected with a colored paper test. The dentist can usually correct the filling by grinding it down in the same appointment.
Material Intolerances or Sensitivities
In some cases, the body reacts sensitively to the filling material. Amalgam or certain composite materials can cause irritation or allergy-like symptoms. Cosmedica Dental no longer uses such materials following the EU ban on amalgam filling from 2025.
Anyone with known intolerances should definitely inform their dentist in advance. If necessary, the filling can be replaced with a different, more compatible material.
Leaking Fillings or Inflammation of the Nerve
When composite fillings cure, tiny cracks or an inaccurate marginal seal can sometimes occur. Such microcracks between the tooth and the filling may initially go unnoticed, but they provide a gateway for bacteria. This can cause severe pain and encourage the recurrence of cavities under the filling.
If the caries extends close to the dental nerve, it can become inflamed (pulpitis). There are two options: either the inflammation is reversible and the tooth heals, or it is irreversible. In such cases, a simple filling is no longer sufficient; root canal treatment is required.
How long is pain normally expected after a filling?
However, if the pain…
- persists for more than two weeks
- worsens at night
- is throbbing or stabbing
- or the tooth feels hot
YOUR PAIN WON'T GO AWAY?
Have you had a dental procedure involving a filling and the pain isn’t going away? Then contact us. We’ll be happy to advise you on the next steps.
What can you do about the pain?
First, avoid extreme temperatures, as hot or cold foods and drinks can increase pain sensitivity. You should also be careful when chewing. Chew on the other side to give the affected tooth a rest.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be good for short-term relief. However, you should always read the package insert or consult a doctor or pharmacist. If you are particularly sensitive to cold or heat, you can also use a desensitizing toothpaste.
When should you return to the dentist?
A follow-up visit is recommended if:
- The pain does not subside or worsens
- You experience tooth pain when chewing
- Swelling or redness occurs
- The tooth remains particularly sensitive to cold or heat
- The filling feels loose or has fallen out
Conclusion: Toothache after a filling is often harmless – but not always
Toothache after a filling is not uncommon and, in most cases, harmless. However, if the pain persists or is severe, you should not hesitate to return to the dentist. Good communication with your dentist is crucial. Share your complaints with our team at Cosmedica Dental in Istanbul!