Discomfort After Dental Filling: What to Do When Your Bite Feels Off

The filling of the gaps in the lower right first and second molars has been completed, but the occlusion feels very uncomfortable and weak?

Hello, Doctor.
Last week on June 17, I went for a dental filling.
I told the doctor that the gap between my lower right first and second molars is too large, causing food to get stuck every time I bite down, which leads to pain after a few minutes.
The doctor ground down the first molar and filled it.
According to the health insurance disease classification, it was classified as caries penetrating the dentin in the pits and fissures.
Since the doctor is very young, he ground it down too many times, causing me a lot of pain.
He couldn't get the height right in one go.
That evening, he ground it down at least four or five times, and then used some occlusion paper to check for any bite discomfort.
In the end, it seemed fine, but since I wasn't clear on what type of filling material he used, I thought it would be normal to eat afterward.
However, on the 21st, it still felt the same.
I'm worried that my tooth might be damaged; I can't eat soft or hard foods like I used to, and I can't bite down too hard.
Currently, I'm relying on my left side to eat until my next appointment.
Should I go back to see that doctor? We aren't trained in this field, so how would this be treated? However, I do notice that food doesn't get stuck anymore.
It feels like a bigger issue now, as I feel I've lost my biting ability.
I really don't want to undergo a root canal and have my tooth become black and fragile.
Please give me some advice, thank you.

Joannes, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/21

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Joannes,
The gap between the first and second molars is too large, which can easily trap food.
This may be due to cavities or defects near the contact points of the first and second molars.
After the dentist removes the decayed portion, they may fill it with composite resin.
However, if you still feel discomfort after the filling, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment with your dentist for an examination.
The discomfort may be caused by the filling being too high, affecting your bite, or there may be partial detachment or fracture of the filling material.
Please consult your dentist for further evaluation.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Chief of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2020/06/21

More Info

After a dental filling, it is not uncommon to experience discomfort or a feeling that your bite is off. This can be particularly concerning if you have had multiple adjustments made to your filling, as you described. Here are some steps you can take to address your situation:
1. Assess the Discomfort: First, it’s important to determine the nature of your discomfort. If the pain is sharp, persistent, or worsening, it could indicate that the filling is too high or that there is an underlying issue, such as an incomplete filling or an infection.

2. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of when the discomfort occurs. Is it only when you bite down, or does it happen at other times as well? If you notice that the pain is triggered by specific actions, such as chewing or biting down, this information can be helpful for your dentist.

3. Return to Your Dentist: Given that you have already experienced multiple adjustments, it is advisable to return to the same dentist for a follow-up appointment. Explain your symptoms clearly, including the pain and any changes in your bite. Your dentist may need to make further adjustments to the filling to ensure that it is at the correct height and that your bite is aligned properly.

4. Seek a Second Opinion: If you feel uncomfortable with the treatment you received or if the discomfort persists despite adjustments, consider seeking a second opinion from another dentist. They can provide an independent assessment of your situation and recommend appropriate treatment.

5. Avoid Hard Foods: Until the issue is resolved, it may be wise to avoid hard or chewy foods that could exacerbate the discomfort. Stick to softer foods that require less force to chew, which can help minimize pain and prevent further irritation.

6. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort in the short term. However, this should not replace professional evaluation and treatment.

7. Consider the Filling Material: If you are unsure about the type of filling material used, it may be worth discussing this with your dentist. Different materials have different properties, and some may be more prone to causing discomfort if not placed correctly.

8. Long-term Care: After the filling is adjusted and you are feeling better, maintain good oral hygiene practices. Brush and floss regularly to prevent further decay and ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy.

9. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular dental check-ups are essential, especially after any dental work. These visits allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your fillings and overall oral health.

In summary, it is crucial to communicate openly with your dentist about your discomfort after a filling. If necessary, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion to ensure that your dental health is being properly managed. Remember, your comfort and health are the top priorities, and there are solutions available to address any issues you may be facing.

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