Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Fillings: Causes and Solutions

Light tapping on the filling site causes sensitivity?

1.
Over three years ago, I had a resin filling on my upper right second molar.
Now, when I lightly tap or press it with chopsticks, I experience slight sensitivity, but the discomfort disappears once the pressure is released.
I don't feel anything while chewing normally (possibly because the filling is not on the occlusal surface?).
Could this indicate the presence of decay? What would you recommend for treatment?
2.
A few weeks ago, I mentioned to another dentist that I occasionally feel slight discomfort in my lower left second molar.
He determined that the occlusal surface near the adjacent wisdom tooth had a deeper indentation and slightly reduced some tooth structure before applying resin.
After that, chewing was generally fine, but I experienced slight discomfort when biting into harder foods.
A few days ago, when I lightly tapped or pressed it with chopsticks, I felt some sensitivity, and even after rinsing or drinking water, the discomfort persisted for a few hours.
Could this indicate decay? What would you recommend for treatment? Thank you!

You Zhiqun, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/12

Dr. Zhu Guanyu reply Dentistry

Hello, tooth percussion pain is usually associated with apical lesions.
Of course, dental caries can also be a precursor to apical lesions.
As for the basic examination of dental caries, it requires a professional to inspect the mouth with appropriate lighting and instruments, and if necessary, supplemented by X-ray examination or reagents.
Regarding the sensation of "sourness when drinking water" after a cavity filling, it may be related to the micro-leakage of the filling material and the distance of the cavity from the dental pulp.
Thank you for your message.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Zhu, Chief of Dentistry, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/09/12

More Info

Tooth sensitivity after dental fillings is a common concern that many patients experience. Understanding the underlying causes and potential solutions can help alleviate discomfort and guide appropriate treatment.

1. Tooth Sensitivity After Composite Fillings: The sensitivity you are experiencing in your right upper second molar, which manifests as mild discomfort when tapping or applying light pressure, could be attributed to several factors. First, it is essential to consider that the filling material, especially if it is composite resin, can sometimes lead to transient sensitivity. This sensitivity may arise from the thermal expansion of the material or from the bonding process, which can irritate the nerve endings in the tooth.
Additionally, if the filling is not perfectly contoured or if it is slightly high, it can lead to discomfort when biting or applying pressure. The fact that you do not feel discomfort during regular chewing suggests that the filling may not be in the occlusal (biting) surface, which is a positive sign. However, it is crucial to rule out any underlying issues, such as recurrent decay or a crack in the tooth. A thorough examination, including X-rays, may be necessary to ensure that there is no new decay or other complications.

Recommendations: If the sensitivity persists or worsens, it would be advisable to return to your dentist for a re-evaluation. They may consider adjusting the filling or performing additional diagnostic tests to rule out any underlying issues. In the meantime, using a desensitizing toothpaste can help manage sensitivity.

2. Sensitivity in the Left Lower Second Molar: The mild discomfort you are experiencing in your left lower second molar, particularly when biting down on hard foods or when tapping with a utensil, could also indicate several possibilities. The dentist's assessment that the discomfort is related to the adjacent wisdom tooth and the depth of the occlusal surface is plausible. If the filling placed is not adequately sealing the tooth or if there is still some decay present, it could lead to sensitivity.

The fact that the discomfort lingers after applying pressure and can last for several hours suggests that there may be some inflammation or irritation of the dental pulp. This could be due to a variety of reasons, including microleakage of the filling, which allows bacteria to enter and irritate the pulp, or it could be a sign of early pulpitis.

Recommendations: It is essential to monitor the situation closely. If the sensitivity continues or worsens, it would be prudent to return to your dentist for further evaluation. They may recommend additional imaging to check for any underlying issues or may suggest a more definitive treatment, such as a root canal if pulpitis is suspected.

In summary, both cases of tooth sensitivity after dental fillings warrant careful monitoring and potentially further evaluation by a dental professional. Sensitivity can be a normal response to dental work, but persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored. Regular dental check-ups and open communication with your dentist about any discomfort can help ensure that any issues are addressed promptly, preventing further complications.

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