Aftercare
Deep dental filling aftercare
How to settle in a deep filling: manage normal sensitivity, protect the tooth while it adjusts, and know when a high bite needs a quick review.
This is general aftercare guidance, not a substitute for the specific instructions your dentist gave you. If their advice differs, follow theirs. If you are worried about your recovery, please contact us.
Quick guide
Do's and don'ts
Do
- Wait for the numbness to wear off before eating
- Chew on the opposite side at first
- Brush and floss gently around the filling
- Take pain relief if you need it
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Use a nightguard if one is advised
- Contact the clinic if your bite feels high
Don't
- Do not chew while still numb
- Do not eat hard, sticky or chewy foods
- Do not eat very hot or very cold foods at first
- Do not ignore persistent or worsening pain
- Do not grind or clench your teeth
- Do not bite excessively hard foods
- Do not delay a review if symptoms persist
What to expect (this is normal)
- Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure for a few days
- A tooth that feels slightly tender as it adjusts after a deep filling
First 24 to 48 hours
Immediate aftercare
- Wait for the numbness to wear off: Wait until the numbness has gone before eating or chewing, so you do not bite your tongue or cheek.
- Go easy on the tooth: Avoid hard, sticky or chewy foods at first to give yourself time to adapt to the new filling, and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Mind temperature: Avoid very hot or very cold foods and drinks for 24 to 48 hours, as the tooth may be temperature-sensitive because the deep filling sits close to the nerve.
- Manage discomfort: Manage discomfort with prescribed pain medication, or over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, if needed.
- Keep it clean: Brush and floss gently, especially around the treated tooth.
Ongoing care
- Good oral hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss regularly to avoid trapping food and to keep the gums healthy.
- Protect against grinding: Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth. If you grind, a nightguard is advised to protect the filling.
- Ease back into chewing: Be mindful when chewing until the tooth feels completely comfortable.
When to contact us
Please contact us if you experience:
- Sensitivity or pain lasting longer than 1 to 2 weeks
- A bite that feels uneven or too high
- Severe, spontaneous throbbing pain, especially if it affects your sleep (root canal treatment may be needed)
- Hives or a skin rash, swelling of the lips or eyelids, wheezing or shortness of breath, or severe diarrhoea as an adverse reaction to any medication prescribed
Related treatments
Questions about your recovery?
Not sure if something is normal?
If anything about your recovery does not seem right, call or message us. We will advise you, and arrange a review if you need one.