How long is a tooth sensitive after a filling?

How long is a tooth sensitive after a filling?

Cleveland Clinic says mild sensitivity and gum soreness are normal after a filling and usually fade within a week or two. Healthline's article on sensitivity after a filling says it normally fades within two to four weeks. Healthline's article on eating after a filling says heat and cold sensitivity usually lasts one to three days, though in some cases it can persist for several months, and that gum soreness typically peaks around 24 hours and is mostly gone within three days to a week. The ranges differ, so use them as a rough guide and ask your dentist.

What helps while it settles?

Healthline suggests gently brushing and flossing, using a desensitizing toothpaste, temporarily avoiding hot or cold foods and drinks and acidic ones such as citrus fruit, wine and yogurt, and chewing on the opposite side. It says an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen may reduce discomfort. Healthline's eating page adds that sugary foods and drinks may increase sensitivity and encourage bacterial growth around the new filling. Cleveland Clinic's sensitive teeth page says desensitizing toothpaste can reduce pain and that you can apply a small amount to the sensitive spot before bed.

When is it not normal?

Healthline says the most common cause of sensitivity after a filling is a bite that feels off, which the dentist can adjust to better match your other teeth. Sensitivity that is not improving or lasts longer than four weeks needs a visit, and sensitivity persisting after a few weeks may point to pulpitis, which could need a root canal. Cleveland Clinic lists a throbbing toothache, pain when biting or lingering pain from heat or cold as signs of possible pulp damage. Call right away for a broken filling, severe pain that medication does not relieve, a swollen face or jaw, or fever.

How long does sensitivity last after whitening?

Cleveland Clinic says temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation is common when you start using a whitening product and usually resolves quickly, but it gives no specific number of days. It says sensitivity is not a sign of lasting damage though it can be uncomfortable. It advises taking a break from bleaching or switching to a milder product, following the product directions on frequency and duration, and asking your dentist what to do. See our guides on whitening for more.

How long does tooth sensitivity last in general?

Cleveland Clinic's sensitive teeth page gives no set duration. It says sensitivity sometimes resolves on its own, especially after a dental visit, but pain with hot, cold or sweet foods should be checked. Listed causes include acidic foods and drinks, brushing too hard, cracked teeth, gum disease, gum recession, certain mouthwashes, plaque near the roots, recent dental procedures, teeth grinding and whitening products. Dentist-applied options include bonding to cover exposed roots, a dentin sealant and fluoride varnish. Untreated sensitivity can lead to infection, cavities, gum disease or long-term pain. See our guide on sudden tooth sensitivity.

When does sensitivity start in pregnancy?

The sources we read do not cover tooth sensitivity in pregnancy. Cleveland Clinic's sensitive teeth page does not mention it. The ADA's pregnancy page, which we cite in our guide to fillings during pregnancy, says pregnancy raises the risk of cavities and gingivitis, so any new sensitivity is worth mentioning to your dentist rather than assuming it is hormonal.

What a dentist may do

Healthline says the dentist can adjust a high filling, and may redo it with a different material if there is an allergic reaction. For pulpitis lasting beyond a few weeks, a root canal could be needed. Our guide on whether you can brush after a filling explains daily care, and the one on eating after a filling explains timing.

Questions to ask your dentist

Ask these before you leave the chair.

• How long should I expect sensitivity with this filling material?
• Which toothpaste do you recommend?
• How will I know if my bite needs adjusting?
• What symptoms mean I should call you straight away?
• If sensitivity is from whitening, how should I change my routine?

Frequently asked questions