Dental fillings restore teeth damaged by cavities. They also help prevent further decay. After your appointment, it’s important to care for your filling properly. Good habits can reduce discomfort and help your restoration last longer.
At Agathos Dentistry, we help patients in London, ON, and the surrounding area protect their smiles. Here are a few simple tips to follow after your dental filling.
What to Expect After Dental Fillings
It’s normal to have mild sensitivity after a filling. Your tooth may also feel slightly sore. These symptoms usually improve within a day or two.
If you received a white composite filling, it hardens immediately under a curing light. You can usually eat soon after your appointment. If you received a metal filling, your dentist may recommend waiting up to 24 hours before chewing on that side.
Wait until the freezing has completely worn off before eating. This helps prevent accidentally biting your tongue, lips, or cheeks.
Eating Tips After Dental Fillings
Choose soft foods if your tooth feels sensitive. Soup, yogurt, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and mashed potatoes are all good options. They require very little chewing.
Avoid very hot or very cold foods for the first day if they cause discomfort. Also avoid sticky candy, hard nuts, popcorn kernels, ice, and chewy foods for the first week or two. These foods can damage or loosen a new filling.
Limiting sugary snacks and acidic drinks can also help protect your restored tooth.
Keep Your Teeth Clean
Continue brushing and flossing as you normally would. Good oral hygiene helps keep bacteria away from the treated tooth.
Brush gently around the filling. Floss carefully between your teeth. Keeping the area clean supports healthy gums and helps your filling last longer.
Know When to Call Your Dentist
Some sensitivity is normal after a filling. However, severe pain is not. Contact Agathos Dentistry if you notice persistent pain, swelling, or sensitivity that lasts more than a few days.
You should also call if your bite feels uneven or the filling feels loose. Your dentist can check the restoration and make any necessary adjustments.
If you need a dental filling or have questions about caring for your smile, Agathos Dentistry is here to help. We proudly serve patients in London, ON, and the surrounding communities with compassionate, high-quality dental care.
