In the case of a cavity, the dentist usually performs a filling treatment by removing the damaged part of the tooth and filling it with a specific material: a dental filling. It's possible to experience some sensitivity after this procedure, particularly when brushing your teeth or when consuming very hot or very cold foods. Here are some tips to minimize this sensitivity.
The different types of fillings
There are 3 types of "fillings":
- Amalgam (or "grey filling"): Composed of an alloy of mercury (over 50%), silver, copper, and tin, it was the most commonly used type in the past. It was valued for its strength, watertightness, low cost, and durability, but is considered unsightly and potentially toxic (due to the presence of mercury).
- The composite (or "white lead"): It is made of a resin that imitates the color of enamel. It is therefore more aesthetically pleasing and does not contain mercury, but can easily be stained by certain substances (coffee, wine, tobacco, etc.).
- Ceramics: Aesthetically pleasing, mimicking enamel in hardness and appearance, it is the best material for replacing a damaged tooth. It is also more expensive than regular fillings.
Regardless of the filling or repair your dentist has applied to your tooth, sensitivity may occur after placement.
Post-operative pain
It is sometimes possible to experience slight pain in the days following a dental repair. Indeed, during the procedure, your teeth, jaw, and even your gums undergo some trauma, and when your sensation returns after the anesthesia, some sensitivity may remain.
This hypersensitivity is not alarming and can be relieved by taking pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Taking aspirin is not recommended as it will unnecessarily thin your blood.
Caution: Clove is a powerful antiseptic and anesthetic, and without proper use, it can do more harm than good to your gums. Natural products and essential oils, although available without a prescription, should not be taken lightly. These are potent products that can negatively impact your oral health, your overall health, or cause unwanted interactions with medications you may already be taking. Please consult a qualified professional experienced in your oral health before using them.
To reduce sensitivity, also brush or clean your teeth with an ultra-soft brush and a desensitizing toothpaste. Several products on the market help reduce sensitivity (for example, Xpur Remin, MI paste, etc.). You can apply the paste to the tooth like a beauty cream! You can ask us for the best product for your specific needs. Avoid rinsing so that the product remains on the tooth. For optimal and lasting results, the application should be repeated at least once a day for three weeks.
Sensitivity to temperature changes
You may experience discomfort when eating hot or cold foods, as the nerves are particularly sensitive after a filling. Also be aware that extreme temperatures can cause a silver filling to expand or contract if you have one in your mouth. Therefore, it's best to stick to lukewarm or room-temperature foods.
Sensitivity during chewing
It is common to experience pain when pressure is applied to a recently filled tooth, especially while chewing. In this case, pain relievers can provide relief.
Some people prefer foods that are easy to chew (neither too hard nor too sticky) and ideally use the side of their mouth opposite the filling. In general, avoid clenching your jaw too much.
This type of pain should be temporary. If you are still experiencing pain when chewing after three days, return to your dentist, who may need to make adjustments to your filling. Indeed, due to the anesthesia, correctly adjusting the height of the filling can sometimes be difficult. A second procedure, performed without anesthesia, may then be necessary to perfect the final touches.
A throbbing or pulsating sensation
If you experience a throbbing or shooting sensation in your filled tooth, consult your dentist immediately. This could be a sign of nerve inflammation, related to a particularly deep cavity or one located close to the nerve. In this case, prompt treatment is essential to prevent the pain from worsening.
It's normal to experience some discomfort in the days following the placement of a filling. A few precautions can be taken to alleviate this, but if your pain persists for more than a week, consult your dentist. Sensitivity to temperature changes may be noticeable in some people for up to six months.
The REMA Dentists team will welcome you and gladly assist you with your dental check-up, establishing the best diagnoses related to your condition.
