Frequently Asked Questions After a Dental Filling

Patients at Birch Dentistry often ask what is normal after cavity treatment. Here are the most common concerns and what they usually mean.

Numbness from local anesthesia typically lasts a few hours. Avoid chewing until it wears off so you don't accidentally bite your cheek, tongue, or lip.

If you are still numb the next day, contact your dentist.

Yes. It is common to feel sensitivity to cold, heat, sweets, or pressure after treatment. This usually improves over several days but can sometimes last a couple of weeks while the nerve heals.

Biting discomfort can happen if the filling is slightly high once the numbness fades. Even a tiny imbalance can create pressure and soreness.

The good news: this is often corrected very quickly with a simple adjustment.

Call your dentist for a bite check. A small polishing correction can relieve the pressure and help prevent continued discomfort.

Mild soreness around the tooth or injection site can be normal for a day or two. Sensitivity may last longer but should gradually improve.

If pain is getting worse instead of better, you should call your dentist.

It's best to wait until numbness wears off before chewing to avoid injuring your cheek or tongue.

If your dentist gave you specific instructions for your situation, follow those first.

Yes. Composite fillings are hardened with a curing light and are fully set before you leave the office.

You can brush and floss normally, but try to avoid very sticky, hard, or chewy foods for about 24 hours.

For the first day, try to avoid:

• chewing ice
• hard candy
• sticky foods

If your tooth feels sensitive, reduce extremely hot, cold, or acidic foods until it settles.

Please call if:

• your bite still feels uneven after a few days
• numbness lasts into the next day
• pain is worsening
• swelling develops
• you feel sharp edges or cracks

We would much rather check early and keep things simple.

Sometimes — especially if the cavity was very deep and the nerve becomes irritated.

If pain becomes stronger over time, lingers, or wakes you at night, your dentist may recommend evaluating the tooth further.

If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts.

The team at Birch Dentistry is always happy to answer questions and make sure your tooth is healing comfortably.

📞 Call us anytime.