Tooth pain after a restorative procedure can be both surprising and frustrating. Tooth fillings are a common dental treatment used to fix a tooth that has lost some of its structure due to cavities or injury. However, it’s not unusual for some people to feel pain or sensitivity in the tooth months after getting a filling. Let’s find out why it happens:
Causes Behind Discomfort Months After Tooth Filling
Tooth fillings are a common dental treatment used to fix cavities and restore the structure of a tooth. According to Dr. Harsh Patel of Next Care Dental, “It’s normal to feel some sensitivity or discomfort after a filling as your tooth adjusts to it. However, ongoing pain months later may indicate a problem.” Here are some possible causes:
Bite Misalignment
After a filling is placed, it should fit perfectly with your bite. If the filling is too high or uneven, it can put extra pressure on the tooth when you chew or close your mouth. Over time, this can cause discomfort or even harm the tooth. The pain usually happens when biting or chewing, especially on the filled tooth. A dentist can reshape the filling to ensure it is aligned properly, preventing discomfort and protecting the tooth’s health.
Nerve Irritation
If a filling is placed close to the nerve of the tooth, it can cause irritation and lead to sensitivity. This condition, called pulpitis, can either be temporary (reversible) or more serious (irreversible). You might feel sharp pain when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods, or you may experience ongoing sensitivity. If the problem is reversible pulpitis, it might go away on its own, but if the pain continues or worsens, you may need a root canal to remove the damaged nerve.
Cracks or Damage in the Filling
Fillings can wear down over time due to normal chewing or teeth grinding, and cracks can develop. These cracks can expose sensitive parts of the tooth, causing pain. You might feel a sudden sharp pain when eating or drinking or notice visible cracks in the filling. The only solution is to replace the damaged filling. Regular dental check-ups help catch these issues early.
Infection
“In rare cases, an infection can occur in a filled tooth if bacteria get through gaps around the filling or if some decay wasn’t fully removed during the procedure. “Says Dr. Harsh Patel. You might experience throbbing pain, swelling around the tooth, or even fever. If this happens, it’s important to see a dentist right away. Treatment may involve antibiotics or a root canal.
Referred Pain
Sometimes, pain from a filled tooth can spread to nearby teeth, even if they’re healthy. This is called referred pain, and it usually goes away on its own in a few weeks. You might feel sensitivity in neighboring teeth without any visible issues. If the pain lasts longer than a few weeks, it’s a good idea to consult your dentist.
Allergic Reaction to Filling Material
Though rare, some people may be allergic to the materials used in fillings, like amalgam. This can lead to ongoing discomfort and irritation around the filling. If you notice persistent swelling or irritation near the filled tooth, the filling material may need to be replaced with something that doesn’t cause an allergic reaction.
Micro-fractures in the Tooth
During or after the filling procedure, tiny cracks or fractures can form in the tooth, often due to pressure from chewing or teeth grinding. These small fractures can lead to long-term sensitivity and pain. You might feel sharp pain when chewing or notice sensitivity to temperature changes. In this case, your dentist might recommend a crown to protect and stabilize the tooth.
When to Seek Help?
While having some mild sensitivity after a filling is normal, lasting pain for months should not be ignored. As Dr. Harsh Patel says, “Your dentist is the best person to help find and fix any issues that come up after a filling.” You should see a dentist if:
- The pain gets worse over time
- You notice swelling or a fever (which could be signs of an infection)
- Sensitivity is making it hard to eat or drink
Wrapping Up
Regular dental check-ups and good brushing habits can help keep your fillings in good condition and maintain your overall dental health. Always consult your dentist whether your filling hurts a week, months, or years later.
Annie Edith is an experienced journalist and content creator with a strong passion for health and wellness. She takes a unique approach to her writing, exploring the latest trends in Dental, Fitness, and mental well-being, while providing readers with informative, research-based articles.
