Can You Eat After Dental Filling? What You Need to Know

Yes, you can eat after getting a dental filling, but it’s important to take a few precautions. It’s best to wait until the numbness from the anesthetic wears off to avoid accidentally biting your tongue or cheek. 

After a dental filling procedure, it's important to be mindful of what you eat to protect your filled tooth. Once the numbness has faded, you can manage your diet and oral care during the recovery period, for food after dental filling should be soft and not too hot or cold to avoid sensitivity. 

What to Expect After Your Dental Filling

Can you eat after dental filling? Lets find out:

1) Numbness

After the procedure, it’s normal to feel lingering numbness from the anesthesia. Be cautious not to accidentally bite your cheeks, lips, or tongue while numb especially while having food. This numb sensation should wear off within a few hours.

2) Temperature Sensitivity

You might experience temporary sensitivity to hot and cold foods or beverages. This is a normal part of the healing process and should improve within a few days. If the sensitivity continues or becomes more intense, please reach out to us.

3) Discomfort and Sensitivity

Some discomfort or sensitivity in the area of the new filling is common during the first few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this discomfort, but if it persists or worsens, don’t hesitate to contact us.

4) Unusual Bite

You might notice an unusual feeling when you bite down at first. It can take some time for you to adjust to the new filling. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort when biting down, please let us know so we can address any issues.

Helpful Tips for Post-Filling Care

Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, and composite fillings each have different care needs. Composite fillings harden quickly under UV light, allowing you to eat after a filling sooner, while amalgam fillings require 24 hours before chewing on the side of your mouth with the filled tooth.

Oral Hygiene

You can continue with your regular brushing and flossing routine, but be gentle around the filled tooth for the first 24 hours. This will help ensure the area remains clean without irritating.

Diet

During this time, avoid sticky foods, sugary foods, and hard or hot foods, as these can cause tooth sensitivity or dislodge the filling material. Instead, opt for soft foods like mashed potatoes or scrambled eggs. Also, steer clear of chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails, as this can lead to cracks in the filling. Always be cautious when chewing on the side of your mouth with the new filling to prevent any issues.

Protection

If you tend to grind your teeth at night, using a nightguard can help protect your filling and reduce pressure on your teeth.

Regular Check-ups

Keeping up with your routine dental check-ups is crucial. These visits allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your filling and identify any potential issues early such as how long does a dental filling last. Regular visits help ensure the longevity of your filling and address any concerns about dental fillings during pregnancy or other specific needs.

If you experience discomfort, counter pain medications may help.

Need Assistance?

If you have any questions or need further assistance with your new filling, we’re here to help. Feel free to contact us with any concerns or if you need more guidance.