Tooth Sensitivity after a Filling

The dental filling procedure is the most common treatment for repairing a tooth cavity. After the filling procedure is complete it is common to experience some soreness, pain and sensitivity. In fact, you or your children may experience some stress about going to get a filling because of this result. In fact, many people and many children have sensitive teeth, especially after a filling.If you are worried about your child getting their first filling, you should think through what getting a filling will be like for your child and ways to prepare them for this experience.

Preparing Your Child

In general, if a filling is needed, you should do your best to talk to your child and have a simple conversation about what a filling procedure is like. The less you make the filling a fuss, the less your child will. If there are details you aren’t sure about, you can leave these to the dentist, as they should have a great deal of experience in discussing fillings and the necessary steps with other kids. Besides a simple and clear conversation, you should make sure your child brushes their teeth prior to the treatment to remove any excess food and avoids eating a big meal that may upset their stomach.

What to Expect During Filling Procedure

In general, the normal dental filling procedure takes approximately an hour. First your child’s dentist will sit down and walk them through this procedure and the steps. For young patients it helps them understand what is about to happen and minimizes any of their big fears. Next, they will apply the local or the topical anesthetic, or maybe both. Next, they will remove the cavity in the tooth, which is the decayed portion. This involves a drill. This step should not be painful but may be a little uncomfortable. After the decay is removed the dentist will apply the filling and shape it to match the other teeth. Once they are satisfied with the filling, the dentist will polish up the tooth, so it matches the others and the procedure is complete. If you or your child expresses fear or shows they are nervous about the procedure the dentist will likely take a few breaks during the process to check in and make sure everyone is doing ok.

After Treatment

For individuals with sensitive teeth, the few weeks after the dental filling procedure can be a little uncomfortable. Even for individuals without normally sensitive teeth fillings can lead to sensitivity or pain. This sensitivity should be expected to last a few days. If the sensitivity lasts more than a few days, it may be due to issues with the bite or the filling coverage. If you or your child are experiencing sensitivity after a tooth feeling you should do the following:

  • Pay attention to the sensitivity for a few days and make sure it does not progress into severe pain
  • Avoid foods that may trigger sensitivity, including hot or cold foods
  • Avoid straws or things that cause sucking in air that may trigger sensitivity
  • Make sure your child avoids heavy activity the day of and after the dental filling

Overall, a dental filling can be an area of anxiety for your child. There are steps that can be taken to prepare for the procedure, and to minimize the pain and discomfort that is expected after. If the pain, discomfort or sensitivity that results from your dental filling treatment do not go away with-in a few days you should make sure to contact your dentist and have a conversation and make a follow-up appointment.

More About Dental Fillings : Types of Fillings