Toothache After Cavity Filling
Introduction
Just got a dental filling but now your tooth is aching? Don’t panic. Toothache after cavity filling is a common experience and usually nothing to worry about. In most cases, discomfort is temporary and treatable. However, some pain can be a sign that your bite needs adjustment or the pulp is inflamed. This guide will explain:
- Why you might feel pain or sensitivity after a filling
- How long the discomfort should last
- What home remedies and medical options can help
- When to call your dentist
- Answers to the top 10 FAQs about toothache relief after cavity filling
Whether you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity after filling, sharp pain when biting, or lingering discomfort, we’ve got everything you need to know.
Why Does My Tooth Hurt After a Filling?
Pain after a filling doesn’t always mean something went wrong. Here are the most common causes:
- Tooth Sensitivity After Filling
This is the most common complaint. Your tooth may feel sensitive to:
- Hot or cold foods and beverages
- Sweet or acidic foods
- Cold air or water while brushing
Why? The inner nerve tissue (pulp) may have been irritated during cleaning or drilling, especially in deeper cavities.
- High Filling or Bite Imbalance
If the filling is slightly too high, your teeth may not align properly during biting or chewing. This results in:
- Sharp pain after filling when biting
- Localized pain or soreness
- Possible TMJ strain if not corrected
Solution: Your dentist can easily fix this by adjusting the bite in a 5-minute appointment.
- Pulpitis (Nerve Inflammation)
If the cavity was very deep, the dental pulp might become inflamed. There are two types:
- Reversible pulpitis: Mild, goes away in days to weeks
- Irreversible pulpitis: Severe, often needs root canal treatment
- Cracked Tooth Syndrome
Sometimes, small undetected fractures in the tooth can cause pain, especially on chewing. These might be aggravated by cavity preparation or pressure during the filling.
- Filling Material Reaction
Very rarely, a patient might react to the filling material (like composite resin or amalgam), leading to localized inflammation or pain.
How Long Should a Filling Hurt?
While recovery varies from person to person, here’s a rough timeline:
| Days After Filling | Expected Sensations | Red Flags |
| Day 1–3 | Mild sensitivity to temperature | Sharp pain when chewing, swelling |
| Day 4–7 | Decreasing sensitivity | Increasing pain, deep ache |
| Week 2+ | Should feel almost normal | Persistent sensitivity or throbbing |
Tip: Mild sensitivity is normal up to 2–3 weeks. But pain that worsens or spreads should be evaluated immediately.
Toothache Relief After Cavity Filling: Home & Medical Remedies
Let’s break down simple solutions that work fast.
- Over-the-Counter Painkillers
- Paracetamol (500 mg) – Best for general pain
- Ibuprofen (400 mg) – Reduces both pain and inflammation
Always take after meals and avoid self-medication if you have health issues (e.g., ulcers, liver/kidney disease).
- Cold Compresses
Apply an ice pack on the cheek for 10–15 minutes at a time, especially if swelling or jaw pain is present.
- Saltwater Rinse
- Mix ½ tsp salt in a glass of warm water
- Rinse gently 2–3 times daily
It soothes inflammation and keeps the area clean.
- Desensitizing Toothpaste
Use products like:
- Sensodyne Repair & Protect
- Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief
Apply a dab directly on the sensitive tooth and leave it for a few minutes before brushing.
- Avoid These Triggers
- Ice-cold drinks
- Very hot foods
- Sticky or crunchy foods (e.g., nuts, candy)
- Acidic or sweet juices
When to See a Dentist
Seek professional care if:
- Pain worsens after a week
- There’s swelling, bad breath, or discharge
- You feel a dull, constant throb
- You have pain even when not chewing
Possible treatments:
- Bite adjustment
- Filling replacement
- Root canal therapy
- Pulp capping or crown (if tooth is compromised)
Realistic Scenarios (That Happen Often)
Scenario 1: You had a deep filling on your molar and now can’t chew on that side — likely a high filling.
Scenario 2: Pain lasted a week but now it’s almost gone — most likely reversible pulpitis.
Scenario 3: Pain started 2 weeks after the filling — possibly a crack or hidden infection.
Conclusion
Toothache relief after cavity filling is possible with the right care, attention, and understanding of what’s normal and what’s not. While mild discomfort is expected, sharp pain or persistent issues should be professionally evaluated.
Stay tuned — we’ll be posting detailed guides on:
- Tooth sensitivity after filling
- How long should a filling hurt?
- Sharp pain after filling when biting
- Pain months after filling
Bookmark this page and start your journey to pain-free dental health.
Top 10 FAQs on Toothache After Filling
- Can a filling cause permanent nerve damage?
Rare, but deep cavities can inflame the nerve. If not treated, it may need a root canal. - Is it normal for a tooth to hurt a month after filling?
No. Pain that lasts beyond 2–3 weeks needs evaluation. - Will antibiotics help tooth pain after filling?
Not usually. Antibiotics only help in infection — not in sensitivity or bite issues. - Can I eat on a newly filled tooth?
Yes, but wait 1–2 hours. If it’s a composite filling, you can eat sooner. For silver (amalgam), wait 24 hours. - Can a filling be redone if it hurts?
Yes. Your dentist can remove and replace a faulty or leaking filling. - Why do I have pain only when biting down?
This points to bite problems, a cracked tooth, or pulpitis. - Does clove oil help pain after a filling?
Mildly. It can soothe the nerve temporarily, but it’s not a substitute for dental care. - Will the pain go away on its own?
If it’s reversible irritation, yes. But if it worsens, it probably won’t. - Can I use a medicated gel like Orajel?
Yes, for temporary relief, but it doesn’t fix the cause. - Should I avoid brushing the filled tooth?
No, brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Keeping the area clean is essential.