After a Dental Filling: Care Instructions
Right After the Filling
If you had numbness (local anesthesia):
Avoid eating until the numbness wears off (usually 1–3 hours).
Be careful not to bite your cheek, tongue, or lip by accident.
🍽️ Eating & Drinking
Composite (white) fillings:
You can usually eat once numbness is gone.
Amalgam (silver) fillings:
Wait 24 hours before chewing hard or sticky foods on that side.
Avoid very hot, cold, sticky, or hard foods for the first day.
Chew on the opposite side if possible.
😬 Sensitivity & Discomfort
Mild sensitivity to cold, heat, or pressure is normal for a few days.
Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth if recommended.
Mild soreness can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers (only what’s allowed for your age and as approved by a parent/guardian).
🪥 Oral Hygiene
Brush and floss as usual, but gently around the filled tooth for the first day.
Keep the area clean to help healing.
⚠️ What to Watch For
Contact your dentist if you notice:
Pain that lasts more than a few days or gets worse
Sharp pain when biting (filling may be too high)
Cracks, rough edges, or if the filling feels loose
Swelling, fever, or signs of infection
🚫 Avoid
Chewing gum or sticky candy for at least 24 hours
Grinding or clenching your teeth (tell your dentist if you do this)
