The Best Aftercare Tips for A Tooth Filling
Jessica Levco
November 8, 2024
At Altogether Dental, we’re here to help show you what to expect and how to care for your filled tooth to promote healing and longevity.
A tooth filling is a common dental procedure that restores a tooth damaged by decay or a minor fracture. When a tooth develops a cavity (a small hole in the tooth), it needs to be filled to prevent further decay and restore its function and structure. Think of it as a way to “fill” the area of your tooth where the cavity was removed.
Now that you know what a tooth filling is, it’s important to understand how tooth filling aftercare is essential for long-term success. At Altogether Dental, we’re here to help show you what to expect and how to care for your filled tooth to promote healing and longevity.
Tooth filling aftercare
Mild to moderate sensitivity is normal in the first few days after getting a filling. During this time, Medical News Today suggests the following advice for tooth filling aftercare if you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity:
Use pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Apply oral numbing gel to sensitive areas
Brush with soft, circular motions
Skip whitening products, which can increase sensitivity
Rinse with water after eating acidic foods
Wait to brush after acidic foods to protect tooth enamel
Tooth sensitivity can last between two to four weeks, says Healthline. If your tooth sensitivity is getting worse — or you have a toothache or fever — contact your dentist.
How long after a filling can you eat, drink, brush and floss?
Your dentist will give you detailed advice about how long to wait before eating and what foods and beverages you should avoid. Here’s a quick overview of some common questions you might have:
When can I start drinking soda after filling? Drinking sugary beverages might’ve led you to getting a tooth filling in the first place! Keep in mind that soda’s sugars and acids can cause tooth damage, says Healthline.
Can you eat after a filling? Yes, but the type of filling determines when you can eat, says Healthline. Cleveland Clinic says you can eat and drink right after getting a tooth filled. But you might want to avoid hot or cold drinks and foods for a few days because your teeth might be extra sensitive.
Can I brush my teeth after a filling? Fox Creek Dental Care, which accepts Altogether Dental, says you can brush your teeth 24 hours after a filling. That’s because you want to let the filling material set and harden fully.
How long after filling can you floss? Experts say to wait at least a day until you can begin flossing again. Avoid using waxed floss because it’s thick, meaning it could displace the filling, advises Great Lakes Dental Associates, which accepts Altogether Dental. Thin dental floss (like a water flosser) might be a better option.
How to relieve tooth pain after a filling
Before filling a cavity, your dentist will apply local anesthesia near the tooth. The area will stay numb for 1-2 hours after your appointment. But when the anesthesia fades, you might feel some pain or sensitivity. Healthline shares a few tips on what to do:
Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin)
Skip very hot or cold foods and drinks for a few days
Avoid acidic items like citrus, wine and yogurt temporarily
Brush and floss carefully around the filled area
Use toothpaste made for sensitive teeth (Sensodyne)
Chew on the other side of your mouth
How to prevent fillings
According to the Journal of the American Dental Association, maintaining proper oral is the best way to prevent fillings. Here’s a look at how to do that:
Get your teeth cleaned at least twice a year
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Clean between teeth once a day with floss or another interdental cleaner
How often is a regular dental check-up?
We get it: We know that nobody likes going to the dentist. But scheduling a regular dental check-up twice a year (as recommended by the American Dental Association) can help reduce the risk of serious oral health issues, like cavities and gum disease, says Cleveland Clinic. Plus, your regular check-ups can save you money: You want to catch any little problems before they get bigger.
With your Altogether Dental membership, we make getting a regular dental check-up affordable. You’ll get 15-50% off all dental procedures — unlimited usage; throughout the year. Every dental procedure is included with membership, such as: routine cleanings, fillings, X-rays, crowns, orthodontia, cosmetic procedures (whitening and veneers), braces, major dental procedures (like root canals) and so much more.
