Post-Operative Fillings Instructions

What to Expect After Treatment

Your tooth has been restored with a modern tooth-colored composite material, commonly used in dental fillings. These restorations are strong, durable, and designed to provide effective tooth restoration care for many years. They contain fine glass-like filler particles that enhance strength and wear resistance. However, like natural teeth, they are not indestructible.

Eating & Numbness

· Composite fillings harden immediately, so you won’t need to wait before eating.

· If anesthetic was used, your lips, tongue, cheek, and teeth may experience numbness for several hours.

· To avoid accidental biting or burns, refrain from chewing and drinking hot beverages until numbness has fully worn off.

Sensitivity

· It’s common to experience mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure for several weeks after your dental filling.

· Sensitivity may be more noticeable if the cavity was deep.

· This sensitivity should gradually decrease over time and is considered normal post-operative care.

Gum & Injection Site Discomfort

· The gum tissue around the restored tooth and the injection site may feel sore or irritated for a few days following the procedure.

· This tenderness should resolve on its own.

Bite & Feel of the Restoration

· You may notice that the restored tooth feels slightly different in shape or texture compared to your natural teeth.

· Your tongue may exaggerate these small differences.

· If your bite feels uneven or uncomfortable, please call our office for a simple adjustment.

IMPORTANT — DO NOT:

DO NOT chew extremely hard foods (ice, hard candy, nuts) on the filled tooth.

DO NOT chew while numb.

DO NOT drink very hot beverages while numb.

DO NOT ignore persistent bite discomfort.

DO NOT use your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects.

DO NOT assume ongoing pain or sensitivity is normal beyond a few weeks.

When to Call the Office

Please contact us if you experience:

· Persistent or worsening pain.

· Sensitivity that does not improve over time.

· A bite that feels uneven or uncomfortable.

· Any concerns about your restoration.

© 2025 John E. Sullivan DDS, P.C.

This document is the property of John E. Sullivan DDS, P.C. and is intended for use within this practice only.