Getting a tooth filled is only half the job—what you do next matters just as much. If you don’t look after your filling properly, you could risk further decay, infection, or even a failed repair. The first 24–48 hours are especially important to make sure your filling sets correctly and lasts as long as possible.
How you care for your new dental work in the hours and days following a filling plays a significant role in determining its durability. Whether you’ve received an amalgam filling or opted for a more discreet white tooth filling, proper post-procedure care will help you achieve the best outcome.
Immediate Actions to Avoid Post-Filling
Eating & Drinking (First 2 Hours)
Your mouth needs complete rest immediately after the dental filling procedure. Even if you feel fine, listen to your dentist and resist the urge to eat or drink for at least 2 hours. This isn’t just caution, it’s about chemistry – the filling has not yet hardened fully and your mouth is still adjusting to the procedure.
Temperature Extremes (First 24 Hours)
Avoid foods and drinks that are either too hot or too cold during this window. If you don’t, you risk stirring up sensitivity and causing discomfort in your newly treated tooth. In the worst case scenario, you risk creating gaps between the filling and your tooth’s structure which become a breeding ground for bacteria and subsequent decay.
Food and drinks that recovering patients sometimes overlook include:
- Coffee (or tea)
- Ice cream
- Hot soup
- Hot oatmeal or porridge
- Popsicles
If possible, aim for room-temperature bites and sips for the initial 24 hours to protect the area and reduce potential pain.
Sticky Foods (First 24 Hours)
Sticky or chewy foods are especially problematic. Caramel, gum or toffee can literally pull out your new filling before it’s fully bonded to your tooth. A displaced filling means another dentist trip and potential complications, so set aside these temptations for at least a full day following your procedure.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid After a Tooth Filling
Indulging in sugary or acidic foods shortly after a tooth filling might sound harmless, but these choices can actually irritate your tooth and its surroundings. These items often trigger unnecessary sensitivity and, in some cases, could undermine the durability of your filling.
Hard and crunchy foods should also be on your no-go list to protect your new dental work. It’s wise to steer clear of foods such as:
- Nuts and seeds
- Hard lollies
- Raw vegetables
- Ice
- Hard crackers or chips
It’s equally important to refrain from having alcoholic and sugary beverages for at least a full day post-procedure. These drinks risk irritating the treated area and might even interfere with how certain tooth-filling materials set.
Habits to Avoid After a Dental Filling
First 48 Hours: Critical Care Period
One of your most immediate concerns is to limit smoking, vaping and tobacco use. They not only slow down the healing process but can also stain a new filling before it has fully set. Chances are, your dentist will recommend refraining from these habits altogether. If you can’t quit entirely, at least wait 48 hours before using any tobacco products. Your teeth will thank you.
Long-Term Protection
Teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching can easily damage your new filling. If you know you’re a teeth grinder when you sleep, it might be worth discussing the option of a night guard with your dentist to safeguard your dental work. If your grinding is stress-related, consider taking a day off from work to recover and minimise exposure to other stressors.
Many patients also have the habit of chewing on pens, pencils or fingernails. A lot of people don’t even realise they’re doing it! If you can help it, avoid chewing hard materials as they pose a risk of cracking or dislodging your dental filling. Other hard, commonly chewed items include ice, hard candies and certain nuts. These should all be avoided.
Signs to Watch for After a Filling
Normal Sensations During Recovery
First, let’s break down what’s normal when recovering from a tooth filling. Slight discomfort is common and may persist for a few days. If your mouth feels mildly tender or more responsive to temperature than usual, this is to be expected. These symptoms should gradually improve and not worsen.
When To Call Your Dentist
On the other hand, if pain or sensitivity lingers for more than a week, it could signal that something is wrong. Persistent pain isn’t a typical part of the healing process and might suggest that your filling requires attention. If you experience a sharp pain when biting, seek immediate help.
A proper fitting should make your bite feel the same as before. Your teeth should mesh together as they always did. If biting down or chewing seems unusual or uneven, this is a sign that you should contact your dentist for a check-up. This also applies if you feel pressure in unexpected places when you bite down.
Inspecting Your Filling Visually
If something doesn’t feel right, visual inspection is effective. Red flags to watch for include:
- Visible cracks or chips.
- Dark spots or discolouration.
- Rough edges that you can feel with your tongue.
- Gaps forming between the filling and the tooth.
- The feeling of loose pieces.
Don’t wait to report these issues. Early intervention can prevent infection, deeper decay or complete filling failure. What might seem like a minor annoyance now could turn into the need for root canal treatment if ignored.
The Bottom Line
Your filling won’t take care of itself. Think carefully about what you put into your mouth in the first 24-48 hours and don’t hesitate to call your dentist if something doesn’t seem right. It’s better to have another check-up than need to get your whole filling replaced because you ignored the warning signs.
Worried about your filling? Get in touch with Emergency Dental Repairs Implant Dentist – we’ve seen it all and we’re here to help. Contact us for peace of mind and expert care when you need it most.