If you have cavities, your dentist may recommend dental fillings. Your teeth may become sensitive after a dental filling, despite the fact that they are long-lasting and effective. It might be a little unsettling to feel that jolt when you bite into something cold or to feel that pang when you sip your daily coffee.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity After a Filling
Imagine that your tooth has had a little operation. Even the simplest dental procedures may temporarily disrupt the sensitive tissues inside and around the tooth. The following explains why sensitivity may develop with a filling:
Bite Adjustment
Your dentist will make an effort to make sure your new filling fits your bite perfectly. But occasionally it takes some getting used to, and when you bite down, a little elevated filling may place additional strain on the tooth. Sensitivity and even discomfort may result from this elevated pressure.
Nerve Irritation
Your dentist must remove decay during the filling procedure, which occasionally occurs near the tooth’s nerve. The pressure and vibrations associated with this procedure may cause the tooth’s nerve endings to become momentarily irritated. After being operated on, the nerve may remain somewhat sensitive for a while, much like a wounded muscle may feel.
Inflammation
As a normal reaction to the operation, the gums around the treated tooth may become slightly inflamed. Particularly in the area close to the gum line, this inflammation may exacerbate sensitivity.
Filling Material
Even though contemporary filling materials are biocompatible, the bonding and setting processes might occasionally result in a transient response inside the tooth’s structure.
Dentin Exposure
The layer of dentin, which lies beneath the enamel, has small tubules that go straight to the nerve. These tubules may become more sensitive to temperature fluctuations and specific meals if the cavity was deep or if a tiny portion of dentin was exposed during the filling procedure.
When Should You Go to Your Dentist?
While minor, transient sensitivity is common, there are several circumstances in which you must speak with your dentist, such as:
- When over-the-counter painkillers are unable to ease your severe, throbbing pain.
- If the sensitivity grows worse over time rather than becoming better over time.
- This may be a sign that you need to modify your bite.
- Sensitivity that continues longer than a month calls for further research.
Ending Note!
Post-filling sensitivity is often a brief annoyance that goes away on its own in a matter of days to weeks. Your tooth is adapting to the repair, which is why you are experiencing discomfort. Your filled tooth should be pleasant and functional once again if you follow your dentist’s advice and maintain proper dental hygiene.
Consult our dentist at Integrity Dental of Troy about your or your oral health. Call us at (586) 977-0300, and we will help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come!