Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Filling: Causes and Solutions

Q: Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Filling: Causes and Solutions

Hello： If the restoration does not follow the natural shape of the tooth, it can indeed cause irritation to the gums and periodontal tissues, leading to gingivitis. <br>If you experience sensitivity after the dental restoration, it may be due to the properties of the filling mate

Post-operative sensitivity after dental filling?

There is a small cavity on the buccal side of the second molar near the gum line (the doctor said it is not deep).
After the filling was completed two weeks ago, I still experience persistent sensitivity when drinking room temperature water and eating fruit.
During a follow-up visit, the doctor examined it and mentioned that the filling was too thin and needed to be built up more.
However, it has been a week since then, and I still feel sensitivity.
Additionally, even the occlusal area directly above the molar causes discomfort when biting into soft foods (which was not the case before the filling and after the first filling).
Later, I looked in the mirror and noticed that the doctor's filling technique was quite unusual; besides the cavity, a large area around it, almost a quarter of the side, was filled all the way to the gum line, and my gums also feel sharp pain! Since this method differs from previous filling techniques I have experienced, I have some concerns:
1.
Is this technique considered a normal treatment approach? Is it typical to fill almost a quarter of the tooth that does not have decay? I am worried that removing healthy tooth structure may be the reason for the sensitivity and gum pain.

2.
Could the material used for the filling be causing the sensitivity and pain?
3.
Since the same doctor has treated me twice with no improvement, should I consider switching to another clinic for evaluation?
Thank you for your assistance.

Miss Han, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/10

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If the restoration does not follow the natural shape of the tooth, it can indeed cause irritation to the gums and periodontal tissues, leading to gingivitis.
If you experience sensitivity after the dental restoration, it may be due to the properties of the filling material, and you might consider changing the material used.
If you feel pain when biting down, it could be because the restoration is too high or the polymer material has not fully cured; the simplest solution is to perform an occlusal adjustment or even redo the restoration.
If you experience unexplained pain after the restoration, it may be due to a galvanic reaction between different metal restorations in the mouth.
If you no longer trust your original dentist, it is advisable to seek further treatment at a medical center! Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2022/05/10

More Info

Tooth sensitivity after a dental filling can be a frustrating experience, especially when it persists despite treatment. Your situation raises several important points regarding dental procedures, the materials used, and the potential causes of ongoing discomfort. Let’s break down your concerns and provide some insights based on dental health principles.

1. Normal Treatment Practices: The technique your dentist used, which involved filling not just the decayed area but also a significant portion of the adjacent healthy tooth structure, can be a point of contention. While some dentists may choose to extend the filling to ensure a better seal and prevent future decay, this approach can sometimes lead to unnecessary removal of healthy tooth structure. Ideally, a filling should only be placed where decay exists. If the dentist felt that the surrounding area was at risk of decay, they might have opted for this method. However, if this was not clearly communicated to you, it could understandably lead to confusion and concern.
2. Material Sensitivity: The materials used in dental fillings can indeed contribute to sensitivity. Composite resins, for example, can sometimes cause a reaction in the tooth or surrounding gum tissue, leading to discomfort. If the filling material is not properly cured or if it is too close to the nerve of the tooth, it can cause ongoing sensitivity. Additionally, if the filling is too high, it can create an improper bite, leading to discomfort when chewing. If you suspect that the material used might be contributing to your sensitivity, it’s worth discussing this with your dentist or seeking a second opinion.

3. Persistent Symptoms and Seeking a Second Opinion: Given that your symptoms have not improved after two visits to the same dentist, it may be prudent to seek a second opinion. A different dentist may provide a fresh perspective on your situation and could identify issues that were previously overlooked. It’s essential to feel comfortable and confident in your dental care, and if you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, it’s perfectly reasonable to consult another professional.

4. Possible Causes of Ongoing Sensitivity: There are several reasons why you might still be experiencing sensitivity after your filling:
- High Filling: If the filling is too high, it can cause discomfort when biting down. This can lead to sensitivity in the tooth and surrounding gums.

- Gum Irritation: If the filling material has come into contact with the gums or if the filling process caused trauma to the gum tissue, this could lead to ongoing discomfort.

- Nerve Involvement: If the decay was close to the pulp (nerve) of the tooth, there could be inflammation that persists even after the filling is placed. This may require further treatment, such as root canal therapy, if the nerve becomes irreversibly damaged.

5. Recommendations:
- Follow-Up: If you haven’t already, schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist to discuss your ongoing symptoms. Be clear about your concerns and the specific areas of discomfort.

- Consider a Second Opinion: If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion from another dental professional.

- Use of Desensitizing Toothpaste: In the meantime, using a desensitizing toothpaste may help alleviate some of the sensitivity you are experiencing.

In conclusion, while it’s common to experience some sensitivity after a dental filling, persistent discomfort warrants further investigation. Communication with your dentist is key, and if you feel your concerns are not being addressed, seeking a second opinion can provide clarity and peace of mind. Remember, your dental health is important, and you deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your treatment.

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