If you’ve ever experienced toothache, you’ll know how uncomfortable it can be. You’re itching to get a dentist appointment to get the problem sorted. Usually, your dentist will perform a tooth filling: removing the decayed tooth and filling the cavity with a safe, permanent new covering. It’s the best way to safeguard your teeth and prevent further decay.
The problem? Well, some people continue to have pain even after the filling is completed. This may last for months – and can be extremely concerning. After all, people visit the dentist, trusting that their problem will be resolved. The issue can be caused for several reasons.
It’s helpful to understand the cause of your lingering toothache. We answer your questions, including why your tooth filling hurts after months and how long a tooth is sensitive after a filling below.
What is a Tooth Filling?
When you have tooth decay, it can cause cavities in the teeth. These include small holes and decayed tooth matter. To save the tooth and prevent further decay, this material must be removed by the dentist. Usually, the dentist uses a specialised drill and numbs the tooth with an anaesthetic.
Once the decayed tooth matter is removed, the space is shaped to hold the filling material. This material is built up layer by layer to create a permanent tooth filling that should last for many years to come. The procedure takes around 30 to 60 minutes – depending on the tooth’s complexity and size.
Tooth fillings are designed to be hard-wearing and safe for the mouth. That means they should not react with the tissue, causing you pain. They’re made from metals, composite (a resin-based material, amalgam (a silver-coloured alloy), gold, or ceramic. None of these materials should cause you pain.
Why Does Your Tooth Filling Hurt After Months
Okay, so the material for the tooth filling shouldn’t be causing you pain. But what is? Well, there are plenty of things that can begin to cause pain either immediately following a new tooth filling or in the days and weeks following the procedure. Understanding the different causes and types of pain can help identify the problem.
Different Types of Pain
As a rule, there are three primary types of pain. Each type of pain is described by a specific word commonly used by patients: sharp, dull, and throbbing.
Sharp Pain
Description. Often sudden in nature, there’s no mistaking sharp pain. Also referred to as a stabbing pain, it occurs when you bite down on the filled tooth or after eating or drinking hot, cold, and sweet foods and drinks.
What causes it? The pain often results from nerve irritation or pulpitis – inflammation of the tooth pulp. This is part of the tooth that stores the nerves and blood vessels and is located in the centre of the tooth.
Dull Pain
Description. Longer lasting than sharp pain, this dull sensation is often continuous and slow-growing. Most people find the pain gets worse when chewing.
What causes it? Unlike sharp pain, there’s no inflammation. Rather, this sensitivity is caused by an incorrect bite – the filling in your tooth protrudes too high, hitting the opposing tooth before any other teeth. The constant low-level trauma causes dull pain when biting or chewing.
Throbbing Pain
Description. Commonly referred to as a constant pulsating sensation resonating from the tooth. It may become deeply uncomfortable later as the underlying issue worsens.
What causes it? Usually, the cause is an irritated nerve of inflammation. However, in contrast to sharp pain, the issue is more severe, indicating an infection or deep dental problem.
Reasons for Continuing Tooth Sensitivity
The type of pain can be an indicator of the underlying problem. But what are the common causes of tooth sensitivity after a filling? Many people experience some minor discomfort after a tooth filling in the subsequent days. However, this pain should fade within a few days. If you experience pain after this time, it is critical you visit a dentist to tackle the problem.
Some potential reasons why your filling continues to hurt include:
Infection (Pulpitis)
Pulpitis, or infection of the tooth pulp, is one of the most worrying outcomes of a tooth filling. It occurs because bacteria enter the tooth due to the filling. This can happen due to improper filling techniques or following the procedure. It’s not uncommon for gaps to appear between the tooth and dental filling over time, opening up the underlying space to bacteria.
The symptoms of an infection include pain, swelling, redness at the site, pus, and a loosening of the tooth. If left unchecked, the infection can spread to the jaw. That’s why it’s crucial to see a dentist straight away to get the area cleaned and receive any necessary medications.
Cracks and Fractures
Tooth filling material is immensely strong and capable of standing up to years of constant use. However, some people may experience cracks and fractures due to improper technique. But that’s not the only cause: people with bruxism, or grinding of the teeth, put excessive pressure on the fillings (especially temporary fillings) that cause them to crack or fracture.
If your dentist believes you have a crack or fracture in your filling, they’ll perform an X-ray to determine the extent of your damage. Usually, the filling is redone, and you’re advised to seek treatment for any potential bruxism to prevent future damage.
Improper Set Fillings
Even the best dentists make mistakes sometimes. As mentioned, when a filling is performed, the filling material is built up in layers. Each layer is set using UV light before the next layer is added. This gives the dentist greater control and greater stability for the final tooth. It reduces the risk of the filling not being set or pulling away from the tooth.
Of course, if this technique isn’t performed correctly, it can cause significant discomfort. Often, there is pain when applying pressure on the tooth – especially if the filling is too high or has become leaky. Indeed, leaky fillings carry a high risk of infection in the months following the procedure. If your filling is loose or falls out, book another appointment with your dentist to have it replaced.
Tooth Sensitivity
It’s common to experience some sensitivity after undergoing any procedure. For most people, this lasts little more than 1-2 days. However, in others, it can persist as they take time to adjust to the new filling. People may notice some slight sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures or from strong biting pressure.
The problem is typically resolved within a few weeks as the tooth begins to settle. Eating sugary and starchy foods is likely to exacerbate the issue as it causes bacterial growth.
High Bite
Ideally, when your dentist performs the filling, they will match the height of the new tooth to its original condition. This means that when you press your teeth together, they meet perfectly. This is known as your bite.
If your bite is high, it means that your dental filling sits above the normal line of the other teeth. This disrupts your normal bite alignment. People usually notice this when chewing or clenching their jaw – their teeth just don’t quite seem to meet. Thankfully, if you have a high bite, your dentist can fix it by trimming down the filling.
Rare Allergic Reactions
As mentioned, tooth-filling material is selected due to its strength and harmlessness. Despite this, some individuals may experience rare allergic reactions to filling materials like amalgam or composite resin. The signs of an allergic reaction include itching, skin rashes (hives), swelling of the area, and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis – a life-threatening reaction.
Most allergic reactions happen immediately following contact with the allergen. However, in other cases, the allergy can be at a lower level, causing lingering pain for months if not treated. If this sounds familiar, your dentist will need to remove the filling and replace it with another material.
Managing Your Dental Filling
If you’ve got pain from a tooth filling, it’s always important to speak to your dentist – even if it’s just for a quick check-up. They can inspect the site, diagnose the cause, and prescribe the necessary treatment. While you should never use online resources to diagnose yourself, some simple home remedies can relieve your pain.
Home Remedies
Using common sense and items around your house can relieve much of the pain and discomfort. Here are some ideas:
· Avoid Sugary Foods. Sugary and starchy foods, like soft drinks, chips, and sweets, are extremely harmful to your oral hygiene. Sugary foods fuel the growth of bacteria in your mouth and can damage enamel. Starchy foods, meanwhile, cling to your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
· Good Oral Hygiene. Always follow your dentist’s recommendations. You should brush your teeth for two minutes twice per day. Alongside this, it’s sensible to swill your mouth with warm salt water (use half a teaspoon) for around 30 seconds to help sterilise it.
· Cold Compress. Apply a cold compress to your cheek near the painful tooth. Usually, around 15-20 minutes is sufficient to relieve some of the inflammation. Use a clean cloth and ice to create the compress.
· Raise Your Head. Prop up your head with several pillows at night to reduce excess blood flow to the area. It can alleviate some discomfort.
· Use Clove Oil. Clove oil is a popular home remedy due to its antibacterial properties. Soak a cotton ball in clove oil and apply it to the tooth.
Alongside these measures, rethink your dental products. Investing in a sonic electric toothbrush can lead to deeper, more effective cleaning that removes the risk of infection and continuing decay. Oclean X Pro Elite Sonic Toothbrush is the next generation of toothbrushes, harnessing sonic power and ultra-quiet technology to lift plaque and food from your teeth. It uses a maglev motor and has 4 modes and 32 intensities to personalise your cleaning routine.
Over-the-Counter Pain Medication
You don’t need to rely on home remedies alone. Your dentist may prescribe a course of pain medications that’s strong enough to deal with your pain. However, while you wait for your appointment, several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines can make a tremendous difference.
These include:
· Paracetamol (Tylenol). It is a highly effective pain reliever for mild to moderate pain. It’s often what your dentist will prescribe you. You can take paracetamol alongside ibuprofen – speak to your dentist for further details.
· Ibuprofen (Advil). Ibuprofen tackles the underlying inflammation, hopefully reducing some of the swelling and relieving your pain. Like paracetamol, it’s highly effective – however, it’s not advisable to take this medication long-term.
· Aspirin. Aspiring works similarly to the other medications, relieving pain and inflammation. Similar to ibuprofen, it cannot be taken long-term due to the risk of bleeding and stomach ulcers. Tell your dentist if you’re taking this medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pain After a Tooth Filling Common?
Yes and no. Some sensitivity following the filling is perfectly normal. Typically, it lasts around 1 to 2 days, gradually fading. If the pain occurs after this time, this is not normal. Pain can either be present immediately after the procedure or in the subsequent days and weeks. Any pain is a sign of something going wrong.
How Long Does Tooth Sensitivity Usually Last?
As mentioned, tooth sensitivity is common for around 1 to 2 days. Some people can experience sensitivity for up to a week more, including sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet food and drink. This should also begin to subside with time.
When Should I Speak to the Dentist?
If you notice any problems with your tooth filling – either pain, looseness, or another symptom – it’s sensible to book an appointment with your dentist. The earlier the problem is checked, the fewer issues you’ll have going forward.