Fillings Post-operative Instructions

Your anesthesia will wear off after approximately 1-3 hours. It is important that you do not bite or chew on the numb side of your mouth. 

Children should be observed to ensure that they do not chew on their cheeks, tongue, lips, etc.

Once the anesthesia has worn off, if you feel that the tooth/teeth with the new filling is hitting first when you bite, you should call us for an adjustment. This imbalance in your bite may cause discomfort if not addressed. 

Your teeth may be sensitive to temperature changes and pressure for a few days to weeks after your new filling. This is normal and should subside. If discomfort worsens or is not improving, please give our office a call as this may mean further treatment is indicated.

Your gums and the site of the injection may be sensitive, sore, or bruised. This will resolve within a few days. Please call with any lingering discomfort. 

With silver fillings, please do not eat for the next hour and avoid hard foods and chewing directly on the filling for the next 24 hours. Composite fillings set up right away and can be chewed on immediately. 

If the cavity removed was deep, it is possible the tooth/teeth may be indicated for additional treatment. If you experience aching, throbbing, swelling, pain at night, or lingering pain with temperature changes, please call us ASAP. 

Please call our office with any questions or concerns.