Persistent Tooth Pain After Filling: What to Do About It?

Q: Persistent Tooth Pain After Filling: What to Do About It?

Hello： If two doctors have reviewed the X-ray and both stated that there is no displacement, it is advisable to trust the professionals. <br>The symptoms of soreness and sensitivity after a filling can last up to six months at most, but if it exceeds your tolerance level, you may

Cavity between teeth, filling keeps falling out?

I had a cavity between my first and second molars that was filled, but the filling came out shortly after.
I went back to have it refilled, but soon after, I experienced sensitivity and pain when drinking hot or cold beverages.
I suspected the filling had come out again, so I visited the dentist.
The dentist found a cavity and only filled that specific spot without doing a complete refilling.
However, I still experience sensitivity and pain when consuming hot or cold drinks.
I consulted two other dentists, but both said that the X-rays showed nothing was wrong with the filling.
When I poke the area with my fingernail, it is very sensitive and painful.
Is this normal? Other teeth that have been filled do not have this issue, and I didn't have any pain initially after the first filling; the pain started after the filling came out.
What should I do?

Ty, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/15

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If two doctors have reviewed the X-ray and both stated that there is no displacement, it is advisable to trust the professionals.
The symptoms of soreness and sensitivity after a filling can last up to six months at most, but if it exceeds your tolerance level, you may consider: 1.
reopening and refilling the tooth or 2.
proceeding directly with root canal treatment.
It is recommended to discuss the follow-up treatment options with the original treating dentist.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2020/06/15

More Info

Persistent tooth pain after a filling can be quite distressing, especially when it interferes with your daily activities such as eating and drinking. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced a series of issues following a dental filling, which may indicate underlying problems that need to be addressed.

Firstly, it's important to understand that tooth sensitivity to hot and cold, especially after a filling, can occur for several reasons. One common cause is that the filling material may not have fully sealed the cavity, allowing for temperature changes to affect the tooth's nerve. Additionally, if the cavity was deep, it could have reached the pulp of the tooth, leading to inflammation and sensitivity. This condition is known as pulpitis, which can be reversible or irreversible depending on the extent of the damage.

Given that you have already visited multiple dentists and had X-rays taken, it is crucial to ensure that the filling is not only intact but also properly placed. Sometimes, a filling can appear fine on an X-ray but may still be causing discomfort due to improper fit or occlusion (the way your teeth come together when you bite). If the filling is too high, it can cause excessive pressure on the tooth when biting, leading to pain.

Here are some steps you can take to address your persistent tooth pain:
1. Return to Your Dentist: Since you are still experiencing pain, it is advisable to return to your dentist for a thorough examination. Explain your symptoms in detail, including the sensitivity to temperature and the pain when you poke the area with your fingernail. This information can help your dentist determine the next steps.

2. Consider a Second Opinion: If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion from another dentist or a specialist, such as an endodontist (root canal specialist), may be beneficial. They can provide a more detailed assessment of the tooth's condition.

3. Evaluate the Filling: Your dentist may want to check the filling for any signs of leakage or improper placement. If the filling is found to be defective, it may need to be replaced or adjusted.

4. Assess for Other Issues: If the filling is intact, your dentist may look for other potential issues, such as cracks in the tooth, gum disease, or even issues with the adjacent teeth. Sometimes, pain can be referred from other areas, so a comprehensive evaluation is essential.

5. Consider Sensitivity Treatments: If the pain is due to sensitivity, your dentist may recommend treatments such as desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride varnishes, or even a night guard if you grind your teeth.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including when the pain occurs and any triggers (like specific foods or temperatures). This information can be valuable for your dentist in diagnosing the issue.

7. Follow-Up Care: If your dentist determines that the tooth is at risk for further complications, such as needing a root canal, it is important to follow their recommendations for treatment promptly.

In summary, persistent tooth pain after a filling is not uncommon, but it should not be ignored. It is essential to communicate openly with your dental care provider about your symptoms and concerns. With the right evaluation and treatment, you can find relief from your discomfort and ensure the long-term health of your tooth. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are key to preventing future dental issues.

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