Dental fillings matter because they stop cavities, protect the tooth’s nerve, and make chewing comfortable again—but some sensitivity after getting one is normal, and ongoing pain deserves a dental check. Fillings work hard to restore and protect teeth, but if discomfort lingers longer than expected, there could be several reasons behind it.
What Fillings Really Do
Fillings do more than just fill a hole—they clean out decay, seal up vulnerable areas, and return strength to your tooth so you can eat without worry. Early treatment also helps avoid bigger headaches later like root canals or crowns.
- Cleaning out decay: Dentists remove soft, decayed tooth bits, stopping bacteria in its tracks.
- Sealing the opening: The filling closes off pathways bacteria might sneak through.
- Restoring shape and durability: With the filling in, your tooth can chew and crunch without food getting stuck or the tooth cracking.
- Preventing costly issues: Treating cavities early means less invasive, less expensive treatment down the road.
Filling Materials: What’s Inside Your Tooth
- Composite (white) fillings: Blend in with your enamel, but they might shrink a little when hardening, sometimes causing micro-gaps.
- Glass ionomer: Gentle on the gums, releases fluoride to help defend against new cavities.
- Metal/amalgam: Strong and durable, but may cause hot or cold sensitivity for some people.
Why Does My Tooth Still Hurt?
Some sensitivity after a filling is expected—especially to cold, sweet foods, or light chewing, usually settling in 3–14 days. Ongoing or sharp pain, though, means it’s time to look closer:
- Bite feels “off”: A slightly too-tall filling can make chewing painful; a quick dentist adjustment fixes this.
- Nerve issues: Deep cavities might irritate the pulp. Short bursts of cold pain may be reversible, but throbbing or lingering pain could need deeper treatment.
- Bonding stress or gaps: Small gaps from composite shrinkage can cause sensitivity, which can often be repaired.
- Cracks in the tooth: Sharp pain when you release a bite may mean a hidden crack—sometimes needing a crown.
- Large fillings: Big fillings can make your tooth flex, causing soreness—often a crown is suggested.
- Gum/ligament irritation: Dental work near gums or after numbing can leave the area sore for a few days.
- Clenching/grinding: Nighttime grinding stresses the tooth, and a night guard can help protect it.
- Neighboring tooth soreness: Sometimes, the nearby teeth feel tender for a while after dental work.
What’s Okay—And What’s a Red Flag
- Expected: Mild cold/sweet sensitivity and gentle chewing soreness that fades day by day.
- Time to call the dentist: Sharp pain on biting or release, pain that lingers past 30–60 seconds, worsening pain beyond three days, swelling, gum pimples, unpleasant taste, fever, or food getting stuck where the filling meets the tooth.
Quick Relief Tips
- Chew on the opposite side for a few days and avoid extremes in temperature.
- Brush gently with desensitizing toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate.
- Keep the area clean—use a soft toothbrush and floss daily.
- Take over-the-counter pain meds as directed (check with your doctor if you’re unsure).
- If the tooth feels too tall or uncomfortable when biting, ask your dentist for a quick adjustment.
Prevention: Keep Your Teeth Filling-Free
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss every day.
- Cut down on sugary snacks and acidic drinks.
- Use fluoride rinses or varnish if you get cavities easily.
- Ask your dentist about sealants, xylitol, or saliva boosters if you have dry mouth.
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth to prevent cracks and extra wear.
When to Ring Your Dentist
- The bite feels high or odd.
- Sharp pain on biting or letting go.
- Cold or heat pain lasting longer than a minute.
- Pain worsens after a few days or does not ease up in two weeks.
- Swelling, gum pimples, bad tastes, fever, or food packed between teeth and fillings.
Just a Friendly Note
This guide is for education, not diagnosis. If tooth pain is severe, lingering, or getting worse, let your dentist know—they’re always happy to help sort it out.
