Why Does Eating and Drinking Cause Pain After Dental Fillings?

Experiencing pain while eating or drinking after a dental filling is common?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you a few questions.
On July 15, I had a filling done on the last molar in my lower right jaw, and on July 22, I had fillings on the upper left and right premolars and the upper left canine.
The dentist mentioned that the cavities were quite deep, close to the nerve.
Since then, I have experienced the following issues:
1.
When I drink cold water, my upper right canine hurts for a few seconds, not continuously.
When I drink water that is slightly warmer than room temperature, my upper left canine also hurts for a few seconds.
So now, both cold and hot drinks cause pain on different sides.

2.
Eating soft bread doesn’t cause any issues, but after eating a bento, the filled molar hurts for a long time.

Could you please explain why this is happening and what steps I should take next?

Liao Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/07/24

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

1.
After filling the lower right molar and the upper left incisor, drinking cold water causes brief pain in the upper left incisor, while drinking slightly warmer water also causes discomfort in the same tooth.
It is recommended to return for a check-up to determine if there is pulpitis, which may require root canal treatment.
2.
The filled molar experiences pain when biting into soft or hard foods, raising concerns that the original cavity may have been deep.
Even though it has been filled, there may still be inflammation of the pulp nerve, necessitating root canal treatment.

Reply Date: 2014/07/24

More Info

Experiencing pain after dental fillings can be a common issue, particularly when the fillings are placed in teeth that have had deep cavities approaching the nerve. The discomfort you are describing, especially when consuming hot or cold beverages, is likely related to a few factors that can affect the teeth and surrounding structures.

Reasons for Pain After Dental Fillings
1. Sensitivity: After a dental filling, it is not unusual for teeth to become sensitive to temperature changes. This sensitivity can be due to the exposure of the dentin layer of the tooth, which is more porous and sensitive than the enamel. When you consume hot or cold substances, the temperature change can cause the dentin to expand or contract, leading to pain. This is often referred to as "dentin hypersensitivity."
2. Inflammation of the Pulp: If the cavity was deep, there is a possibility that the dental pulp (the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels) has become inflamed. This condition, known as pulpitis, can cause sharp pain when exposed to temperature changes. If the inflammation is severe, it may require further treatment, such as root canal therapy.

3. Bite Issues: After a filling, if the tooth is not properly shaped or if the bite is misaligned, it can lead to discomfort when chewing or biting down. This can manifest as pain when eating certain foods, especially harder items like those in a bento box, as you described.

4. Gum Irritation: Sometimes, the filling material can irritate the gums, especially if it extends beyond the tooth surface. This irritation can lead to pain when pressure is applied, such as when chewing.

5. Food Impaction: If food gets stuck between the teeth or around the filling, it can cause discomfort and inflammation of the gums, leading to pain. This is particularly relevant if you have had recent dental work, as the surrounding tissues may be more sensitive.

Recommendations for Management
1. Follow-Up with Your Dentist: It is crucial to return to your dentist for a follow-up appointment. They can assess the filling and check for any underlying issues, such as pulpitis or bite misalignment. If necessary, they can adjust the filling or recommend further treatment.

2. Desensitizing Toothpaste: Using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with temperature changes. These toothpastes contain compounds that help block the transmission of pain signals from the tooth surface to the nerve.

3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Until you can see your dentist, it may be wise to avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks. Stick to room temperature items to minimize discomfort.

4. Soft Foods: Continue to eat softer foods that do not require much chewing, especially if you notice pain when eating harder items. This can help prevent aggravating the sensitive areas.

5. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort. However, consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

6. Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene practices, including gentle brushing and flossing, to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of gum irritation or infection.

In summary, pain after dental fillings can arise from sensitivity, pulp inflammation, bite issues, gum irritation, or food impaction. It is essential to consult with your dentist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management to ensure your comfort and the longevity of your dental work.

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