Getting a cavity filled is a widespread way to fix your tooth and stop decay. Composite fillings, also known as “white” fillings, are a great choice because they match the color of your natural teeth.
These modern fillings are hardened almost instantly using a special blue light by the dentist near you. Even though the filling is hard before you leave the office, your mouth still needs a little time to recover from the work and the numbing medicine.
Knowing what to eat will help you feel better faster and keep your new filling in great shape.
Can I Eat After A Filling?
Most people want to know if they can go straight to lunch after their appointment. While the filling is strong enough to chew on right away, there are a few reasons to wait a little bit.
- Wait for the Numbness to Go Away: Your lips and tongue will feel “asleep” for a few hours. If you try to eat while numb, you might accidentally bite your cheek or tongue, which can really hurt later.
- Check for Sensitivity: Your tooth might feel a bit “shocked” by the work. Waiting until the freezing wears off helps you see how the tooth is actually feeling.
- Let the Gums Heal: If the dentist had to work near your gums, they might be a little sore. Giving them a rest for an hour or two is a good idea.
What To Eat After A Filling?
When the numbing wears off, and you feel hungry, it is best to pick foods that are soft and neither too hot nor too cold.
If you just got composite fillings in Grande Prairie, sticking to these gentle foods for the first day will keep you comfortable.
- Soft Proteins: Scrambled eggs, tofu, or soft fish are easy to chew and won’t stress the tooth.
- Smooth Foods: Mashed potatoes, yogurt, and lukewarm soups are filling and feel good on your mouth.
- Cool Snacks: Applesauce or a smoothie can feel very soothing if your gums feel a bit tender.
- Soft Veggies: Cooked carrots or squash are healthy choices that don’t require much biting.
What Are The Foods To Avoid After A Filling
To keep your new filling safe and avoid any “zings” of pain, avoid these items for at least the first 24 hours.
- Sticky or Chewy Treats: Avoid things like gummy bears, taffy, or caramel. They can pull on the filling while it is still settling in.
- Hard or Crunchy Snacks: Don’t chew on ice, nuts, or complex chips. Biting something very hard can hurt a tooth that is already sensitive.
- Very Hot or Cold Drinks: Ice-cold water or steaming hot coffee can cause a quick flash of pain in a fresh filling.
- Spicy or Acidic Foods: Things like hot sauce or lemons can sometimes irritate the area where the dentist worked.
How To Handle Sensitivity While You Heal
It is totally normal for your tooth to feel a little sensitive to cold air or water for a few days. Think of it like a tiny surgery; the tooth needs time to relax.
- Chew on the Other Side: If the new filling feels a bit tender, try to do your heavy chewing on the other side of your mouth for a day or two.
- Be Gentle: Keep brushing and flossing, but go a bit slower around the new filling until any soreness goes away.
- Use Over-the-Counter Help: If you have a dull ache, regular pain medicine usually makes it feel much better.
- Check the Fit: If your teeth don’t feel like they “fit” together right once the numbness is gone, call the office for a quick five-minute adjustment.
Why Composite Fillings Are A Wise Choice
Composite resin is a great material because it sticks directly to your tooth, making it stronger.
- Invisible Fix: Your dentist matches the color exactly, so nobody can tell you had a cavity.
- Saves More Tooth: Dentists don’t have to drill away as much of your healthy tooth to make these fillings stay in place.
- Quick Finish: Since they harden with a light, you don’t have to wait 24 hours for the material to set, as you did with old silver fillings.
Keeping Your Smile in Great Shape
Taking it easy for a few hours after your filling is the best way to make sure everything heals right.
By choosing soft foods and avoiding very hot or icy drinks on the first day, you’ll stay comfortable and get back to your routine quickly. Remember, a healthy smile starts with good habits at home!
At Bear Creek Dental, we want to make sure your visit is easy and that you feel great afterward. Our team is here to help you keep your teeth healthy and strong. We are always happy to answer your questions or help you set up your next cleaning.
Your comfort is our top priority, and we look forward to seeing you at your next visit!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my mouth stay numb?
Most people find the numbing goes away in 2 to 4 hours. It depends on your body and how much freezing the dentist used.
What if it still hurts after a week?
A minor sensitivity for a few days is normal, but if it still hurts a lot after a week, you should go back for a quick check.
Can I drink a milkshake right away?
Yes, but try to use a spoon instead of a straw, and make sure it isn’t so cold that it hurts your tooth.
Will my new filling change color?
Composite can stain over time, just like real teeth, so rinse with water after drinking coffee or tea.