After a Dental Filling: Care Instructions

• If your bite feels uneven or you have discomfort when biting down, contact our office to schedule a quick adjustment.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold is common and usually improves as the tooth settles over the next few days.
• Mild gum soreness near the treated area is normal. Rinse with warm salt water (1 tsp salt in a glass of warm water) a few times per day.
• If local anesthetic was used, avoid hot foods/drinks until numbness wears off to prevent burns or accidental biting.
• Refrain from chewing on the numb side until full sensation returns.

• Mild bruising or swelling at the injection site may occur and usually resolves within a few days.
• OTC anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen or naproxen may reduce pain or swelling. Follow dosage instructions and let us know if discomfort worsens.
• Jaw soreness can occur from keeping your mouth open. Use an ice pack or warm compress on the outside of your cheek and avoid wide opening or hard chewing until it improves.
• Temporary increased saliva production may happen and typically resolves within a week.

Taking proper care of your new filling is essential for its long-term success:

• Brush twice a day and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup and protect the restoration.
• Visit us regularly for professional cleanings and checkups to monitor your dental health and fillings.

• Avoid biting hard foods (ice, hard nuts, caramel, apples, frozen candy bars) — they can chip or crack a filling.
• Don’t use your teeth as tools: never open packages, chew fingernails, or bite pens/pencils.
• Smoking and staining substances (coffee, tea, red wine, berries) can discolor teeth and restorations. If you can’t avoid them:
  Use a straw • Brush/floss/rinse soon after • Consider whitening mouthwash