A tooth filling is a routine dental procedure designed to restore the function and structure of a tooth damaged by decay or injury. If you’ve recently had a filling, you might be wondering when and what you can eat.
For composite fillings, you can eat almost immediately, but it’s best to wait two hours. Amalgam fillings need 24 hours to be fully set. Stick to soft foods and avoid anything hard or sticky. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about eating after a tooth filling, ensuring a smooth recovery and long-lasting results.
What Is a Tooth Filling?
A tooth filling is a dental treatment used to repair cavities or minor damage in a tooth. When decay erodes the enamel, it creates a cavity in the tooth, which, if not treated, can worsen over time and result in more severe dental issues. To prevent this, a dentist removes the decay and fills the cavity with a durable material like composite resin, amalgam, gold, or porcelain. This not only restores the tooth’s structure but also helps prevent further decay.
When Might You Need a Tooth Filling?
You may require a tooth filling if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent toothache or sensitivity
- Visible holes or dark spots on the teeth
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Sharp or rough edges on a tooth
- Food frequently gets stuck in one area
Regular dental check-ups help detect cavities early, allowing your dentist to provide a filling before the damage becomes severe.
When Can You Eat After a Tooth Filling?
The timing of when you can eat after a filling depends on the type of material used:
- Composite (White) Fillings: These harden instantly under a special light, meaning you can eat right away. However, dentists often recommend waiting at least two hours before eating to allow the filling to settle properly.
- Amalgam (Silver) Fillings: These take longer to fully set, usually 24 hours, so it’s best to avoid chewing on the treated side during this period.
Regardless of the type of filling, it’s crucial to follow your dentist’s advice and avoid eating until any numbness from anaesthesia has worn off. This will help prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
What to Eat After a Tooth Filling
To prevent discomfort and protect the filling, it’s best to eat soft, easy-to-chew foods, especially in the first 24 hours. Here are some dentist-approved food choices:
Best Foods to Eat:
- Soft fruits like bananas and applesauce
- Scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes or well-cooked vegetables
- Smooth soups and broths
- Yoghurt and soft cheeses
- Oatmeal and porridge
- Rice and pasta
Foods to Avoid:
- Hard foods (nuts, raw vegetables, hard sweets) – can put pressure on the filling and risk dislodging it
- Sticky foods (chewing gum, toffees, caramel) – may pull at the filling
- Extremely hot or cold foods – can cause sensitivity, especially in the first few days
- Sugary foods and drinks – can increase the risk of further decay around the filling
What to Do If Eating Is Still Uncomfortable After a Filling
It is normal to experience mild sensitivity or discomfort for a few days after a filling, but if you’re still struggling to eat comfortably after a week, it might indicate an issue such as:
- High filling placement: If the filling is slightly too high, it may cause an uneven bite, leading to discomfort when chewing.
- Tooth sensitivity: Some people experience prolonged sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, which usually subsides over time but may require desensitising toothpaste or treatment.
- Allergic reaction to the filling material: Though rare, some people may have sensitivity or irritation from certain filling materials.
- Underlying decay or infection: If discomfort persists or worsens, it could be a sign that additional treatment is needed.
If you experience prolonged pain, sharp sensitivity, or difficulty chewing, book an appointment with your dentist to have it checked.
The Process of Getting a Tooth Filling
Understanding what happens during a filling can help ease any concerns you might have about the procedure.
- Examination & Diagnosis: Your dentist examines your tooth, often using X-rays to determine the extent of decay.
- Anaesthesia: A local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area and prevent pain during the procedure.
- Decay Removal: The dentist eliminates the decayed portion of the tooth using a drill or laser.
- Filling Placement: The cavity is cleaned and filled with the selected material, which is then shaped and hardened.
- Final Adjustments: The dentist smooths and polishes the filling to ensure a comfortable bite.
The procedure is typically quick, taking around 30 to 60 minutes depending on the complexity.
Different Types of Fillings
Dental fillings are used to restore areas of the tooth’s structure that are lost due to fractures or cavities. Once the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, the dentist will fill the area with one of several different materials. With a white filling, you will have the peace of mind that the filling not only looks great but also functions like the original tooth.
Composite or ‘Tooth-Coloured’ Fillings
These fillings are composed of a blend of materials, such as powdered glass and ceramic, combined with a resin base. They are highly popular because their colour can be well matched to your natural tooth colour, making them almost unnoticeable.
Ceramic Fillings
This type of filling, often made of porcelain, is usually used on larger cavities and is often stronger and more durable. They are normally more expensive as they have to be carefully crafted by a dental technician. However, they are very strong and will usually last for a long time.
Get Expert Dental Care Today
If you’ve recently had a filling and have concerns about eating or discomfort, Manor Dental Practice is here to help. Our expert team provides high-quality, pain-free fillings and aftercare to ensure your oral health stays in top condition. Book an appointment with us today to discuss any concerns or schedule your next check-up.
