Some patients complain about having tooth sensitivity months after getting a filling. Is it something usual or should you be worried about the tooth pain? Keep reading to learn about tooth sensitivity causes and when to see a dentist for treatment.
What are sensitive teeth?
Tooth sensitivity or “dentin hypersensitivity” is experiencing sharp pain in the teeth when eating or drinking something hot or cold. Sometimes brushing can also trigger sensitivity. This is a normal occurrence after undergoing oral procedures such as tooth removal or cavity fillings. Sensitivity occurs because the nerves inside the tooth swell after the dental procedure.
What Causes teeth sensitivity weeks or months after filling
Encountering tooth sensitivity following a dental procedure is common. But if the sensitivity and discomfort continue months after the treatment, you should visit your dentist. There may be a lingering issue that needs immediate treatment.
Filling interfering with the bite
An incorrectly placed filling or one that is interfering with your bite can break when a patient chews on the food (especially something hard or crunchy). Leaving an ill-fitted filling untreated can crack it. This can leave your tooth exposed, causing sensitivity and pain.
If you feel like your filling is incorrectly placed, you should see your dentist right away and have your filling reshaped.
Oral infection
Oral infection can occur after the filling and can cause pain and sensitivity in the teeth.
Filling material
Different dental materials are used for fillings. It’s possible that a patient may be allergic to a particular material which can make the filled tooth sensitive.
Cracks and damage to the teeth or filling
Trauma to the teeth or filling can disclose the nerves and tissues inside the tooth. When the teeth contact hot or cold temperatures, it triggers sensitivity.
If you’re thinking about how to take care of your sensitive teeth due to damaged filling, keeping your oral health intact is the best way.
- Regularly brush your teeth in a gentle manner
- Brush your teeth with toothpaste designed specifically for sensitive teeth
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
- Avoid too hot or cold foods and drinks
- Eat soft food items instead of hard and crunchy ones
Visiting your dentist for sensitive Teeth
If you experience tooth sensitivity weeks or even months after filling, know that there’s something wrong. Under normal circumstances, tooth sensitivity after removing the decay and getting the filling should only last a few days or utmost weeks.
But if it extends beyond this time frame, there can be a lingering oral condition.
The first thing you should do is consult your dentist. Your provider will analyze the issue with your tooth or filling and recommend suitable treatment to help manage the toothache and sensitivity.
If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist in Maple Grove, MN, contact Almond Dental at 763-762-7177.