If you have a cavity, dental fillings from your dentist are a necessary procedure. Here, we explain what you should and shouldn't do after a filling.
Do: Be careful about eating after a dental filling.
Depending on the kind of filling placed, you may want to be cautious about what you eat following your filling procedure. Since composite white fillings instantly harden under a special curing light, you can drink and eat right after the procedure.
Some good options for foods to eat after a filling include soup, scrambled eggs, crackers, or any foods that don't need much chewing.
If you notice pain or swelling, wait until it decreases before eating anything.
Metal dental fillings take some time to harden, so most dentists will recommend that you wait at least 24 hours after receiving a filling to eat solid food.
You'll want to wait until any local anesthetic wears off to avoid being your tongue, lips or cheeks while eating. Ask your dentist about when the best time is to eat after a filling.
Don't: Eat sticky, hard or chewy foods for up to two weeks.
You'll likely want to refrain from cold or hot drinks and foods in the days following a dental filling. Sticky, hard or chewy foods are a no-go for as long as two weeks. Anything that requires you to take hard bites or chew a lot are to be avoided.
You’ll also want to avoid highly acidic foods to prevent infection.
A plus: You don’t have to wait to brush your teeth or floss after a dental filling.
Do: Take over-the-counter painkillers if you notice pain, discomfort or tooth sensitivity after a filling.
You may notice some mild or moderate discomfort or pain after your filling. Most of the time, any pain or swelling will decrease within 12 hours of your procedure, allowing you to eat what you want without sensitivity or discomfort.
Take over-the-counter painkillers with ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate any physical pain or discomfort after a dental filling.
If your pain or discomfort don't dissipate by the 24-hour mark, contact your dentist to schedule a checkup and make sure no infection is developing.
Are you getting a dental filling soon, or need a filling scheduled?
A dentist will be happy to answer any questions, schedule a filling and provide you with detailed information about caring for your mouth afterward.
