If you’ve had a dental filling placed or replaced but still experience discomfort, you may be wondering what’s causing the pain.

There are several reasons why you might feel pain or sensitivity after getting a filling. In some cases, it’s a normal reaction to the dental procedure and should subside on its own. However, in other situations, further treatment may be necessary.

Reasons for Filling Pain

For most people, discomfort after receiving a filling goes away within a day or two. If your pain continues, one of the following factors may be the cause:

• Sensitivity: It’s common for a newly filled tooth to be sensitive to hot and cold foods, biting pressure, or air exposure. This type of sensitivity typically improves within a few weeks.
• Poor positioning: If the filling isn’t placed correctly, it may interfere with your bite, causing pain when your teeth don’t fit together properly.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, some patients experience allergic reactions to the materials used in fillings—such as silver or other metals.
• Filling material: Certain materials, like composite resin, may shrink slightly after placement, leaving small gaps that cause irritation or sensitivity.
• Unhealthy dental tissue: If the tooth’s pulp or inner tissue is damaged or decayed, you might feel a persistent throbbing pain. In these cases, a root canal treatment may be needed to remove the infected tissue and relieve discomfort.

When to Seek Help

While mild sensitivity after a filling is common, ongoing or severe pain is not. It’s important to identify the root cause early to prevent further damage or infection.

Maintain a good oral hygiene routine and monitor your symptoms closely. If your pain persists, contact our dental office. Our team can examine your teeth, pinpoint the source of your discomfort, and provide a lasting solution for relief.

Final Thoughts

Post-filling discomfort can have several causes, but it’s rarely something you should ignore. Timely evaluation ensures you get the care you need to restore comfort and protect your smile.

Still feeling sensitivity or pain? Schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team today for personalized evaluation and treatment.