What’s Going On When There’s Sensitivity?
Dental fillings are one of the safest and most effective options for treating cavities or dental decay. However, some patients might experience discomfort or tooth sensitivity afterwards. In most cases that is normal and the sensitivity resolves in a few days. You must inform your dentist if there is extreme pain, or if discomfort occurs with other symptoms, such as fever, redness, or swelling.
When you have just had a dental filling and after some time you feel the tooth has become quite sensitive, know what triggered such a reaction. It can be one or more of the following factors.
Hot & Cold Drinks and Food
Have you had cold foods or drinks, such as ice cream, popsicles, or beverages with ice, or was it hot drinks, such as coffee or tea? Air might be hitting the tooth, such as when breathing through the mouth, which may be worse with cold air. Did you have something sweet, such as candy, or acidic foods and drinks, including fruit, juice, and coffee? Did you bite down on the tooth while eating.
Some sensitivity after a tooth filling is normal and temporary. However, sensitivity after a filling is due to other causes that need treatment or repair. Some possible reasons explain this, such as an irritated nerve. The procedure might have aggravated or caused inflammation in the nerve inside the tooth. The filling might have been too deep and caused irritation. As the nerve heals, the sensitivity resolves in a few days or even weeks.
Bite Misalignment
Another is incorrect bite alignment, as the filling might be too tall. It is quite normal to experience some minor sensitivity when biting down on the tooth following the procedure. Typically, the bite will correct itself within a few weeks. If sensitivity is severe, one must see the dentist to check the bite. It may be needed to smooth down the high point of the filling to properly fit the bite and eliminate discomfort.
Inflammation of the Pulp
Another reason is inflammation of the pulp- or pulpitis. It may be due to trauma, such as from an accident that resulted in a cracked or broken tooth, the cavity was very deep that it reached the inner pulp layer, or the tooth has undergone multiple fillings or procedures. A dentist can usually resolve pulpitis with a new filling or a restorative procedure, such as a root canal. You may also need to take antibiotics to clear any bacterial infection.
SourceUnderstanding Filling-Related Sensitivity in Lynnwood
Sensitivity after a dental filling procedure is understandable and is still a safe option for many. Don’t worry too much about filling-related sensitivity, they can always be resolved with care, here in Lynnwood.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact our office.
