Most everyone gets at least one cavity that requires filling in their lifetime. The procedure is a simple and relatively painless one, however, many people wonder how long they have to wait to eat after receiving a dental filling. The answer depends on a wide variety of factors. Please continue reading and reach out to our experienced New Jersey dental team to learn more about dental fillings and how long you will have to wait after receiving one. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the different types of dental fillings?
There are two types of fillings that your dentist may use. They are as follows:
- Amalgam filling: This filling is silver, and it generally takes about 24 hours to harden completely, which means you should wait at least 24 hours before chewing where you had the filling done.
- Composite filling. These fillings are more common in today’s day and age, as they will match the color of your tooth. These fillings harden right after your dentists uses a UV bluelight on your tooth. You can generally eat right after leaving the dentist’s office, however, you may have to wait 2+ hours to eat if you are still numb from the numbing agent used.
What other factors will impact how long my tooth will be sensitive after a dental filling?
There are various additional factors that may impact how long your tooth will be sensitive after a dental filling, including the following:
- Discomfort in the gum tissue/postoperative discomfort: Generally speaking, feeling a slight discomfort for a few days after having a filling procedure is normal and nothing to worry about. In many cases, you can simply take an ibuprofen to help manage the pain. Additionally, rinsing with warm salt water may ease some discomfort felt in your gums.
- Heightened sensitivity to the extremes: Sometimes, for a week or so after receiving a dental filling, you may find your tooth is sensitive to hot and cold food and beverages. This is also generally normal, and you can expect this to resolve on its own after a week or two.
There are many actions you can take to help aid the healing process along after having a filling done, including avoiding sticky, chewy, sugary, or hard foods; avoiding hot or cold foods/beverages, and chewing slowly and with your mouth closed. If you have any additional questions or you believe you have a cavity that requires a filling, give us a call today. We are always here to help.
Related Questions:
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Contact The Dental Associates of Basking Ridge
Dental Associates of Basking Ridge is a compassionate, gentle, and professional state-of-the-art dental practice serving Basking Ridge, Morris & Somerset County. Our office is always ready to greet our patients with a smile, take the time to answer any questions, and provide the quality dental services our patients expect. Please contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
