Tooth Pain After Filling
It’s common to notice discomfort after a tooth has been filled, especially when chewing or when the tooth is exposed to cold. Many symptoms settle as the tooth adjusts, but certain patterns can suggest that the filling, the bite, or the nerve inside the tooth may need attention. This page outlines typical healing responses, possible causes of ongoing pain, and when it may be sensible to seek a dental review.
You may also find it helpful to read about toothache and tooth pain when biting.
Types of Pain You May Notice After Dental Fillings
Discomfort after a filling can appear in different ways. Noticing the pattern may help you understand how the tooth is responding and whether the symptoms are typical or may require attention. You do not need to diagnose it yourself, but these descriptions often help guide what to share at a dental visit.
Sharp, Short Cold Sensitivity
A quick “zing” with cold drinks or cool air is one of the most common post-filling sensations.
This often reflects a temporary increase in responsiveness of the nerve inside the tooth.
Cold Sensitivity That Lingers For Several Seconds
When the sensation continues for several seconds before settling, it may suggest that the nerve is taking longer to stabilise after deeper treatment.
This does not always indicate a problem but is a pattern worth monitoring.
Pain When Biting On One Specific Spot
Pain that occurs only when biting on a precise area can be associated with:
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A slightly high spot on the filling
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Pressure on a thinner portion of tooth structure
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An underlying crack becoming more noticeable after treatment
The discomfort is usually brief and triggered by chewing.
Pain When Releasing Pressure (Pain On “Letting Go”)
Some people feel pain not when biting down, but when releasing the bite.
This pattern can sometimes occur when a fine crack or flexing area in the tooth causes the nerve to react during pressure changes.
A Dull, Bruised Feeling When Chewing
A generalised ache or bruised sensation can indicate that the ligament supporting the tooth is adjusting to new pressure after the filling.
This can also occur if the filling is slightly high in the bite.
Sensitivity To Sweet Foods
Sharp or quick pain triggered by sweet foods can be related to microscopic gaps around a filling, which allow fluid movement that stimulates the nerve.
Spontaneous Discomfort Without Chewing
If the tooth aches on its own without temperature or chewing triggers, the nerve may be irritated more deeply.
This does not always require immediate treatment, but it is a pattern to mention if it persists or worsens.
How These Patterns Help
Each type of discomfort provides small clues about whether the issue may relate to:
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Typical post-treatment settling
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The filling’s shape or height
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The bite
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The condition of the deeper tooth structure
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The response of the nerve itself
These details help guide assessment if you choose to have the tooth reviewed.
Common Reasons for Tooth Pain After a Filling
The patterns described above can occur for different reasons. In many cases, the discomfort reflects normal adjustment after treatment. In other situations, it may relate to how the filling fits, how the tooth responds internally, or how forces are distributed during biting.
Temporary Nerve Response After Treatment
When a filling is placed, especially in a deeper cavity, the nerve inside the tooth may temporarily respond more strongly to temperature or pressure. This is a common and often short-lived response.
This type of sensitivity usually improves gradually as the tooth settles.
Bite Imbalance Or Uneven Pressure
If the filling sits slightly higher than intended, the tooth may receive more force when you chew. Even small differences in bite height can make a recently treated tooth feel sore.
This is often addressed with a simple bite adjustment.
Depth Of The Original Cavity
Teeth with deeper decay tend to take longer to stabilise after treatment. The closer the filling is to the nerve, the more likely the tooth may react for a period of time.
Some teeth recover fully, while others may require further monitoring.
Minor Gaps Between The Filling And Tooth
Microscopic spaces can occasionally develop between the filling and the tooth surface. Fluid movement within these spaces can stimulate the nerve and lead to sensitivity.
If symptoms persist, the filling may need to be reviewed.
Structural Stress Or Hidden Cracks
In some teeth, removing an old filling can reveal areas of weakened tooth structure or fine cracks. These may not always be visible but can affect how the tooth responds to pressure.
Depending on the situation, the tooth may benefit from additional protection, such as restorations designed to support weakened tooth structure.
Inflammation Of The Supporting Tissues
The ligament that holds the tooth in place can become temporarily sensitive after changes in bite forces. This can create a bruised or tender feeling when chewing, even if the filling itself is intact.
Clenching Or Grinding Habits
Teeth that are habitually clenched or ground may be more sensitive after a filling because of increased load on the restored tooth. This can make post-treatment discomfort more noticeable.
How Long Tooth Pain After A Filling Usually Lasts
The length of time discomfort lasts after a filling can vary depending on factors such as the depth of the cavity, the location of the tooth, and how the tooth responds after treatment. In many cases, symptoms improve gradually without additional intervention.
Mild Sensitivity In The First Few Days
It is common for a tooth to feel sensitive to cold or pressure for several days after a filling. This often reflects normal post-treatment adjustment.
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Sensitivity is usually brief
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Discomfort tends to reduce day by day
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Chewing carefully during this period may help
Symptoms That Improve Over One To Two Weeks
For deeper fillings, sensitivity may take longer to settle. Some people notice gradual improvement over one to two weeks as the nerve becomes less reactive.
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Cold sensitivity may still occur but becomes less intense
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Chewing discomfort often improves steadily
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The tooth should feel better rather than worse over time
Discomfort That Persists Beyond Two To Three Weeks
If pain or sensitivity remains unchanged after two to three weeks, the tooth may benefit from reassessment.
Persistent symptoms may relate to:
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Bite imbalance
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Ongoing nerve irritation
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Structural stress within the tooth
At this stage, a review helps determine whether any adjustment or further care is needed.
Pain That Worsens Over Time
Pain that intensifies rather than improves is not considered part of normal healing.
This may include:
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Increasing sensitivity
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Pain that begins to occur without chewing
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Discomfort that interferes with daily activities or sleep
These patterns suggest the tooth should be evaluated sooner rather than later.
Sudden Changes After An Initial Improvement
In some cases, a tooth may feel better initially, then develop new or worsening symptoms days or weeks later.
This change may indicate:
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A delayed response of the nerve
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Changes in bite pressure
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A developing issue beneath the filling
A timely dental review can help clarify the cause.
When To Have A Filling Checked
While many post-filling symptoms improve on their own, certain patterns suggest that the tooth or bite may benefit from a review. Seeking assessment early can help clarify whether simple adjustments are needed or whether the tooth requires closer monitoring.
Pain That Does Not Improve Over Time
If discomfort remains the same or shows little improvement after two to three weeks, it may indicate that the tooth is not settling as expected.
This includes:
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Ongoing sensitivity with no gradual reduction
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Repeated discomfort when chewing
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Symptoms that feel “stuck” rather than improving
Pain That Becomes More Intense
Pain that increases in frequency or intensity is not typical of normal post-treatment adjustment.
Examples include:
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Sensitivity becoming stronger rather than milder
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Pain starting to occur without clear triggers
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Discomfort spreading to nearby teeth or the jaw
Lingering Sensitivity To Cold Or Heat
Temperature sensitivity that lasts several seconds after the stimulus is removed may suggest ongoing nerve irritation.
This is particularly relevant if:
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The reaction feels stronger than before
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Heat sensitivity begins to appear
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The tooth feels difficult to settle after exposure
Pain When Biting Or Releasing Pressure
Discomfort that is triggered specifically by chewing or releasing pressure may indicate:
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A bite imbalance
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Localised stress on the tooth
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Structural changes beneath the filling
These issues are often easier to address when identified early.
Spontaneous Or Night-Time Pain
Pain that occurs without chewing or temperature changes, especially at night, should be reviewed promptly. This pattern can suggest deeper irritation within the tooth.
Swelling, Gum Changes, Or Unusual Taste
You should arrange a review if you notice:
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Swelling of the gum near the treated tooth
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Persistent tenderness when pressing the area
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A recurring unpleasant taste or discharge
These findings may indicate inflammation or infection around the tooth.
A Change After Initial Improvement
If the tooth initially felt better but then developed new or worsening symptoms days or weeks later, this change is worth evaluating.
Delayed symptoms can sometimes reflect:
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Changes in bite forces
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A delayed nerve response
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Stress on weakened tooth structure
What A Dentist May Check During A Review
When a tooth is reviewed after a filling, the aim is to identify what may be contributing to the discomfort and whether any adjustments are needed. This assessment usually involves several simple steps.
Bite And Contact Points
Your dentist may check how your teeth come together when you bite and chew. Even small differences in bite height can affect how a recently filled tooth feels.
This may involve:
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Asking you to bite on thin marking paper
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Checking whether one tooth contacts earlier than others
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Assessing chewing movements rather than just static biting
Tooth Response To Temperature And Pressure
The tooth’s response to cold, air, or gentle pressure can provide information about how the nerve is reacting.
These tests help determine:
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Whether sensitivity is settling
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Whether the nerve response is prolonged
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Whether discomfort is localised to one tooth
Shape And Integrity Of The Filling
The filling itself will be examined to ensure:
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The edges are well-adapted
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There are no rough or exposed areas
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The restoration is supporting the tooth appropriately
Minor refinements may sometimes improve comfort.
Surrounding Tooth Structure
Your dentist may look for signs of:
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Cracks or weakened areas
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Wear patterns from clenching or grinding
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Areas where the tooth may be flexing under pressure
Some of these findings are subtle and only become apparent after treatment.
Gum And Supporting Tissues
The gums and supporting tissues around the tooth will be assessed for:
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Localised inflammation
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Tenderness or swelling
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Signs of food trapping or irritation
Gum-related issues can sometimes mimic tooth pain.
Dental X-Rays When Indicated
If needed, X-rays may be taken to evaluate:
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The depth of the original cavity
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The area around the tooth root
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Changes that are not visible on the surface
X-rays help rule out deeper issues and guide further decisions.
Overall Bite And Habits
In some cases, your dentist may also consider:
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Clenching or grinding habits
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Recent dental work on nearby teeth
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Changes in bite following other treatments
These factors can influence how a filled tooth responds.
Can Tooth Pain After A Filling Resolve On Its Own?
In many situations, discomfort after a filling improves without additional treatment. Teeth often need time to adapt after decay is removed and a restoration is placed, especially if the cavity was deeper or close to the nerve.
Situations Where Monitoring Is Often Reasonable
It may be appropriate to observe the tooth for a short period when:
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Sensitivity is mild and improving
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Discomfort occurs mainly with cold and settles quickly
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Chewing feels slightly uncomfortable but not sharp
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There is no swelling or spontaneous pain
In these cases, symptoms often reduce gradually as the nerve settles and the bite stabilises.
Why Teeth May Take Time To Settle
Several factors can contribute to temporary post-filling discomfort:
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The nerve adjusting after removal of decay
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Changes in how forces are distributed during chewing
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Minor inflammation of the supporting ligament
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Increased awareness of the tooth after treatment
These responses are part of normal healing for many people.
What May Help During The Settling Period
While monitoring, some simple measures may help reduce irritation:
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Avoid very hard or sticky foods on that side
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Chew more gently during the first few days
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Maintain careful but gentle brushing around the area
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Avoid repeatedly testing the tooth with cold drinks
These steps support healing without interfering with assessment.
When Monitoring Is No Longer Appropriate
Observation is generally not recommended if:
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Pain is worsening rather than improving
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Sensitivity begins to linger or become spontaneous
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Chewing causes sharp or increasing discomfort
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Swelling, pressure, or night-time pain develops
In these situations, review is advisable rather than waiting longer.
Why Early Review Can Still Be Helpful
Even when pain eventually resolves, a brief review can sometimes identify:
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A minor bite adjustment that speeds recovery
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Areas of excess pressure
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Early signs of nerve irritation
Addressing these early may prevent symptoms from persisting.
Possible Treatment Options If Pain Persists
If discomfort does not improve or worsens over time, your dentist may discuss options based on what is contributing to the symptoms. The goal is to address the underlying cause while keeping treatment as conservative as possible.
Bite Adjustment
If the filling is placing extra pressure on the tooth, a small adjustment to the bite may be all that is needed.
This can:
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Reduce stress on the tooth
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Improve comfort during chewing
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Allow the supporting tissues to settle
Bite adjustments are usually quick and do not involve replacing the filling.
Refining Or Replacing The Filling
If the filling edges, shape, or seal are contributing to sensitivity, the restoration may be refined or replaced.
This may be considered when:
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Symptoms persist without improvement
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Sensitivity is triggered repeatedly in the same way
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Minor gaps or rough areas are identified
The aim is to improve how the filling interacts with the tooth and surrounding tissues.
Protecting The Tooth Structure
If the tooth shows signs of stress, weakening, or cracking, additional protection may be discussed.
This could involve:
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A bonded restoration
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An onlay or crown to support the tooth
These options are considered when preserving the tooth’s structure and reducing further stress is important.
Monitoring With Follow-Up
In some situations, symptoms may not clearly point to a single cause. In these cases, your dentist may recommend monitoring the tooth over time with scheduled follow-up.
This allows:
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Assessment of symptom progression
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Avoidance of unnecessary intervention
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Timely action if changes occur
Root Canal Treatment When Indicated
If the nerve inside the tooth does not recover and continues to cause persistent or spontaneous pain, root canal treatment may be discussed.
This option may be considered when:
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Pain does not settle despite other measures
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Sensitivity becomes prolonged or spontaneous
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Signs suggest the nerve is unable to stabilise
Root canal treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms while preserving the tooth where appropriate.
In some situations, deciding whether to preserve the tooth or remove it may involve weighing several clinical factors. You may find it helpful to read how dentists usually decide between root canal treatment and extraction.
Addressing Clenching Or Grinding Factors
If clenching or grinding is contributing to ongoing discomfort, your dentist may discuss ways to reduce these forces.
This may include:
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Reviewing bite patterns
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Considering a night guard
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Identifying contributing habits
Reducing excessive pressure can help protect restored teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Pain After A Filling
Is Tooth Pain After A Filling Normal?
Some sensitivity or discomfort after a filling is common, especially if the cavity was deeper or close to the nerve. Many teeth settle gradually over time as the nerve response reduces and the bite stabilises.
How Long Should Sensitivity Last After A Filling?
Mild sensitivity often improves within days to a few weeks. For deeper fillings, symptoms may take longer to settle and can fluctuate over time. In some cases, sensitivity gradually resolves over several months as the nerve continues to stabilise. What matters more than the exact duration is whether symptoms are improving rather than worsening.
Why Does My Tooth Hurt When I Bite After A Filling?
Biting pain may occur if the filling is slightly high, if pressure is unevenly distributed, or if the tooth structure is under stress. This type of discomfort is often addressable with a simple bite adjustment.
Can A Filling Cause Lingering Cold Sensitivity?
Yes. Lingering cold sensitivity can occur when the nerve takes longer to stabilise after treatment, particularly in deeper cavities. Monitoring is often reasonable initially, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated.
Does Pain After A Filling Mean I Need Root Canal Treatment?
Not necessarily. Many teeth recover without further treatment. Root canal treatment is typically considered only when pain becomes persistent, spontaneous, or progressively worse despite other measures.
Should I Avoid Chewing On The Filled Tooth?
It may help to avoid very hard or sticky foods for the first few days after a filling, especially if the tooth feels tender. Gentle chewing is usually fine, unless it causes sharp or worsening pain.
Can Pain Appear Weeks After A Filling?
In some cases, symptoms may appear or change weeks later due to bite changes, delayed nerve response, or stress on the tooth. A review can help clarify the cause if this happens.
Got A Question?
If you are unsure whether the discomfort you are experiencing is part of normal healing or something that should be reviewed, you do not need to decide on your own.
When reaching out, it can be helpful to mention:
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How long the filling was placed
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Whether the pain is triggered by cold, chewing, or occurs on its own
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Whether symptoms are improving, unchanged, or worsening
This information helps guide whether monitoring is reasonable or whether an examination may be helpful.
You may reach us by:
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Email: info@ppdental.com.sg
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Phone: +65 6904 8482
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WhatsApp:
You may also find it helpful to read about toothache at night.
Book An Appointment
If tooth pain or sensitivity after a filling is persistent, worsening, or affecting your daily comfort, an assessment can help clarify the cause and discuss appropriate options.
A review may involve checking the bite, the filling, and how the tooth and surrounding tissues are responding. Not all post-filling pain requires further treatment, but having it assessed can provide reassurance and direction.