Going to the dentist should be considered a regular part of maintaining overall health. Sometimes, dentists find issues with teeth that require a filling. What should you do if you leave the dentist’s office having problems with tooth sensitivity after fillings? As a holistic dentist in Jacksonville, FL, Smiles By Shields offers practical, whole-body holistic dental services to patients in a calm, therapeutic environment.

Why Tooth Fillings are Necessary

Dental fillings are essential for addressing various tooth issues caused by fractures, wear and tear, and decay. Dentists use materials like composite resin or ceramic to fill cavities, and repair teeth for several reasons:

• Dental Cavities: Repairing tooth decay caused by plaque and bacteria accumulation that results in holes or cavities in the enamel.
• Weak Teeth: Strengthening weakened teeth due to fractures, removal of other fillings, or excessive wear, reducing susceptibility to further damage.
• Trauma Repair: Repairing damage to the tooth structure, including fractures, chips, or cracks, often combined with other procedures like crowns for long-term viability.
• Infection Treatment: Preventing the spread of infection by filling cavities when decay reaches the tooth’s pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity After a Filling

Tooth sensitivity post-filling can arise due to various factors:

• Irritated Nerves: Removal of damaged tooth tissue can irritate nerves, causing temporary sensitivity to temperature and pressure changes.
• Post-op Swelling: Inflammation of surrounding tissues due to the procedure, leading to sensitivity.
• Misplaced Filling: Incorrect alignment of the filling resulting in an uneven bite and excessive pressure on the filled tooth.
• Deep Filling: Placing a filling close to a nerve can increase sensitivity.
• Filling Material: Different materials respond differently to temperature changes, causing heightened sensitivity.

Normal Sensitivity After a Filling

Normal sensitivity may occur when consuming hot or cold items, accompanied by mild discomfort when biting down. These sensitivities typically decrease over a few weeks. Pain around the mouth usually improves within a few days.

When to Seek Help for Tooth Sensitivity

If your discomfort exceeds what feels normal, you should contact your dentist immediately. That can be critical to preventing you from experiencing more severe dental problems. Below are examples of when you should get help for your tooth sensitivity.

• Constant or Worsening Sensitivity: If sensitivity persists or worsens after a few weeks, indicating potential serious issues.
• Prolonged Pain: Sharp or severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain medications may suggest nerve damage, infection, or other complications.
• Bite Issues: Problems with your bite or pain while chewing may necessitate an adjustment to the filling.
• Potential Infection: Redness, swelling, or signs of pus may indicate an infection requiring prompt treatment.
• Allergic Reaction: Ongoing tooth sensitivity may suggest an allergy to the material used by the dentist.

Finding the Right Dental Solutions

Smiles By Shields prioritizes holistic dentistry, considering the entire body’s health when determining the best treatments. Schedule an appointment to experience superior dental care and the benefits of holistic dentistry.