The Complications and Problems That May Occur When Filling a Tooth.

Pain After Filling a Tooth

• Pain when biting or clenching: This pain usually occurs after the numbness from the filling wears off, often when biting something. It might last for a while. Sometimes, the material used to fill the tooth may cause this pain. You may need to adjust the shape of the filling, but if the pain continues, the issue may lie elsewhere, requiring a root canal treatment.

• Pain from heat or cold: This pain is sharp and occurs when the tooth comes into contact with something hot or cold. It typically disappears a few seconds after the temperature change ends. However, if the pain lasts longer than a few seconds, it may indicate nerve damage in the tooth.

• Persistent pain similar to toothache: If the decay is very deep, reaching the tooth's pulp, you may experience this type of pain. The pulp of the tooth is where the blood vessels and nerves are located, and this type of pain suggests that the pulp is no longer healthy. In such cases, a root canal treatment is necessary.

• Reversible pain: This pain or sensitivity affects not only the filled tooth but also other teeth. It is not a major concern and usually indicates that the filled tooth is radiating pain signals, which the other teeth pick up. This pain should resolve within 1-2 weeks.

  

  

  

  

Sensitivity to Amalgam
It is rare for someone to be allergic to amalgam (the silver-colored material used for fillings). In this rare case, mercury or another component in amalgam may trigger allergic reactions. Symptoms of an amalgam allergy resemble skin sensitivities, such as rashes and itching. Individuals with a history of metal allergies may be more likely to experience this. If confirmed, your dentist will use an alternative material for filling.

Old Fillings Decaying
The constant pressure from chewing and biting can cause old fillings to wear out, crack, or break over time. You cannot check the condition of the fillings yourself, so regular dental check-ups are necessary. If the gap between the tooth enamel and the filling increases, food particles and bacteria can get beneath the filling, leading to further decay. This hidden decay often goes untreated until it causes severe damage, possibly resulting in an infected pulp or an abscess.

If a filling is too large or the decay is extensive, there may not be enough tooth structure left to fill. In such cases, the dentist may use a crown instead of a filling. If new fillings fall out, it may be because the cavity wasn't properly cleaned before the filling or the dentist didn't prepare the area properly.

Ways to Minimize Filling-Related Issues

• After filling, limit activities such as eating, drinking, and chewing until the numbness wears off.

• If you are breastfeeding or suspect you may be pregnant, inform your dentist.

• Immediately report any pain, fever, or difficulty chewing to your dentist after the procedure.

• If you have a metal allergy, especially to materials used in fillings, make sure your dentist is aware of it.

• Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding prescribed medications.