Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Filling: Common Concerns

Concerns about sensitivity after dental fillings?

Hello, Doctor! Last month, I visited the clinic for a cavity check, and I asked the doctor to refill the last tooth on the lower left side, which had previously lost its filling.
The filling process was quite painful, and I had to take several breaks.
After the filling, the doctor asked if it felt too high, and I thought it was fine at the time.
However, in the following days, I felt that tooth seemed a bit high and also felt strange.
Subsequently, the tooth became abnormally sensitive; sometimes, eating or drinking would suddenly cause sharp pain (with cold, hot, hard, and soft foods), while other times it wouldn’t hurt at all, and I couldn’t pinpoint the pain.
I thought it might be due to my tooth sensitivity and continued to monitor it.
Then, during lunch today, I suddenly experienced a wave of pain (I was eating soft food), and the pain was much more intense than before.
So far, any slightly cooler food causes significant discomfort in that tooth.
My guesses are: 1.
The tooth is too sensitive, 2.
The dentist drilled too deep and affected the tooth nerve, 3.
The filling is too high, 4.
Allergic reaction to the filling material, 5.
The cavity was too deep.
I’m not sure which of these could be the cause of my symptoms, and I’m worried it might develop into pulpitis requiring root canal treatment.
I also don’t know whether I should return to the original dentist or seek a second opinion from another doctor.
Thank you in advance for taking the time to help me with my concerns.
Thank you.

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

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Miss Li Li,
Hello! You are actually quite outstanding! You have listed all the possible factors! It seems that the fifth item might be the issue.
It's quite deep.
Please hurry and return to a medical facility for diagnosis and treatment! Take care! Wishing you peace and smoothness in everything!
Sincerely,
Director Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2020/06/20

More Info

Tooth sensitivity after a dental filling can be a common concern, and it can arise from various factors. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing significant discomfort following a recent dental procedure. Let's break down the potential causes of your symptoms and discuss the best course of action.

1. Tooth Sensitivity: It is not uncommon for teeth to become sensitive after a filling. This sensitivity can be due to the trauma of the procedure itself, which may irritate the nerve endings in the tooth. Sensitivity can manifest as pain when consuming hot, cold, or even sweet foods. This is often temporary, but if it persists, it may indicate a deeper issue.

2. High Filling: If the filling is too high, it can affect your bite, leading to discomfort when chewing. This misalignment can cause undue pressure on the tooth, resulting in sensitivity and pain. If you feel that the filling is higher than your other teeth, it is essential to return to your dentist for an adjustment.

3. Nerve Damage: If the dentist drilled too deeply during the filling process, it could potentially irritate or damage the dental pulp, leading to pulpitis (inflammation of the dental pulp). This condition can cause significant pain and may require root canal treatment if the inflammation does not resolve.

4. Material Reaction: Some patients may have sensitivities or allergic reactions to the materials used in dental fillings. If you suspect that the filling material is causing your sensitivity, it is crucial to discuss this with your dentist.

5. Underlying Decay: If the cavity was deep, there might be residual decay that was not fully addressed during the filling. This could lead to ongoing sensitivity and pain, indicating that further treatment may be necessary.

Given your symptoms of increased sensitivity, especially to soft foods and temperature changes, it is advisable to take the following steps:
- Return to Your Dentist: Schedule an appointment with the dentist who performed the filling. They can assess the filling's height, check for any signs of nerve damage, and determine if the sensitivity is a result of the procedure or an underlying issue.

- Document Your Symptoms: Keep a record of when the sensitivity occurs, what foods trigger it, and the severity of the pain. This information can help your dentist make a more accurate diagnosis.

- Consider a Second Opinion: If you feel uncomfortable with your current dentist's assessment or if your symptoms do not improve, seeking a second opinion from another dental professional can provide additional insights and treatment options.

- Avoid Trigger Foods: In the meantime, try to avoid foods and drinks that exacerbate your sensitivity. Stick to lukewarm foods and avoid very hot or cold items until you can see your dentist.

In conclusion, while tooth sensitivity after a filling can be a normal response, persistent or worsening symptoms warrant further investigation. It is crucial to communicate openly with your dentist about your concerns and symptoms. Early intervention can prevent more severe complications, such as the need for root canal therapy. Your oral health is important, and addressing these issues promptly will help ensure the best outcome for your dental care.

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