If you are experiencing dental fillings pain, you need to consider how recently you had the fillings put in your teeth. New fillings may require a period of adjustment, so you may be able to use over-the-counter or topical pain relievers to address your discomfort until your mouth heals and you get used to your new dental work. On the other hand, dental fillings pain can be a sign that one of your fillings has cracked or moved and decay has set in. Pain can also be a sign of an incorrectly placed filling, so it is a good idea to contact your dentist and set up an appointment so that he or she can look at your tooth and discover the cause of your pain. Various treatments range from the use of over-the-counter pain killers to replacing the filling to a root canal on a seriously damaged tooth.
After you get a cavity filled, your dentist may inform you that your tooth may be sensitive for a little while. Although this sensitivity is typically a temporary condition, it can be uncomfortable, so there are several things that you can do to address dental fillings pain right after treatment. The first thing you can do is avoid foods and behaviors that trigger sensitivity. For many people, very hot or very cold foods and drinks, as well as some sweets, can trigger tooth and dental fillings pain. Avoid these foods and beverages for a few weeks until your mouth gets used to the filling. There are various toothpastes on the market formulated for use with sensitive teeth, and their regular use can greatly reduce tooth sensitivity and your discomfort.
If you find that your tooth remains sensitive several weeks after receiving a filling or you begin to experience pain in teeth that were filled some time ago, contact your dentist. Your dentist can examine the tooth and order x-rays that can help him or her understand what may be causing your tooth pain. If infection is spotted, he or she may prescribe antibiotics, and you can discuss various options for treating the tooth. Your dentist may be able to replace your filling, place the crown on the tooth, or, if necessary, recommend a root canal. Treatment is important, as dental decay is typically progressive and may result in severe damage to your teeth and mouth and may even contribute to disease in other parts of your body.