Severe Tooth Pain One Week After Filling: When to Seek Help?

It is common to experience soreness or pain one week after a dental filling?

Hello Doctor: I had a dental filling done last week.
Initially, I didn't feel any discomfort, but after a week, I've started to experience increasing pain while eating.
It has progressed from mild pain to severe pain whenever I drink water or eat.
Should I seek another consultation?

andy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/04

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Andy,
Hello! Dental fillings usually do not cause pain; however, there are two situations that may result in discomfort: 1.
If the cavity is too deep and the nerve is exposed during the filling process, root canal treatment may be necessary.
2.
If the cavity is deep and the nerve is sensitive, a base layer can be applied.
Please communicate more with your dentist! Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2016/09/04

More Info

Experiencing severe tooth pain one week after a dental filling can be concerning and warrants prompt attention. It is not uncommon for patients to experience some discomfort following a dental procedure, but if the pain escalates from mild to severe, especially to the point where it interferes with eating or drinking, it is crucial to seek help from your dentist.

There are several potential reasons for the increased pain following a filling:
1. Pulpitis: The dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, may become inflamed after a filling. This condition, known as pulpitis, can occur if the filling is too deep or if the decay was close to the nerve. Symptoms can include sharp pain, sensitivity to temperature, and discomfort when biting down.

2. High Filling: If the filling is too high, it can cause discomfort when biting down. This can lead to excessive pressure on the tooth, resulting in pain. A simple adjustment by your dentist can alleviate this issue.

3. Sensitivity: Some patients experience heightened sensitivity after dental work, especially if the filling is made of composite resin or if the tooth was previously sensitive. This sensitivity can manifest as pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.

4. Infection: In some cases, if the decay was extensive, there may be an underlying infection that was not addressed during the filling. This can lead to increased pain and may require further treatment, such as a root canal.

5. Cracked Tooth: If the tooth was weakened by decay, it might have developed a crack that is now causing pain. This can be exacerbated by the filling process.

Given these possibilities, it is advisable to contact your dentist as soon as possible. They will likely want to perform a clinical examination and possibly take X-rays to determine the cause of your pain. Early intervention can prevent further complications, such as the need for more invasive treatments like root canals or extractions.

In the meantime, you can manage your discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, but be sure to follow the recommended dosages. Avoiding extremely hot or cold foods and beverages may also help minimize pain until you can see your dentist.

In summary, if you are experiencing severe tooth pain after a filling, do not hesitate to seek dental care. It is better to address the issue sooner rather than later to ensure the health of your tooth and to alleviate your discomfort. Your dentist is the best resource for diagnosing and treating any complications that may arise from your recent dental work.

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