Cavities happen, and dental fillings are a really common way to fix mild to moderate tooth decay. But, once you’ve had a filling, you might be wondering: how long after a filling can you eat?
What you eat and when you eat it after getting a filling is super important. Following your dentist’s instructions can make your filling last longer and prevent complications.
So, let’s get into the guidelines on when and what you can eat after a filling. We’ll help you navigate those first few hours and days so you can keep your smile healthy!
The filling procedure and initial considerations
Before we get into the question of when you can eat after a filling, let’s talk about what happens during the procedure and what factors might influence your aftercare instructions.
What happens during a filling?
First, your dentist will remove any decay from your tooth. Then, they’ll clean and prepare the area for the filling material, which they’ll then apply and shape to match your tooth.
Most dentists use a local anesthetic to numb the area so you won’t feel any pain. This numbness can affect your ability to eat and drink immediately after the procedure.
Types of filling materials
Dentists use a variety of materials for fillings, including composite resin and silver amalgam.
The type of material used can affect how long you need to wait before eating. Some materials require a longer waiting period to fully set.
How long after a filling can you eat?
Dentists often recommend waiting at least two hours after getting a filling before you eat. This gives the filling material time to set properly.
If you had anesthesia, you’ll also want to avoid hot and cold foods and drinks until the numbness wears off. It’s easy to accidentally bite your cheek or tongue when you can’t feel them, so wait until you have full sensation again.
For composite resin fillings, two hours is usually long enough. Other types of fillings might have different recommendations, so ask your dentist for specific instructions.
What to eat after a filling: A dietary guide
For the first day or so after your dental filling, it’s a good idea to eat soft foods that won’t put pressure on the filled tooth.
The first 24 hours: Soft foods are key
Here are some examples of soft foods that are gentle on the mouth and easy to chew:
- Scrambled eggs
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal
- Smoothies
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft pasta
- Cooked vegetables
- Warm soup
Meal-specific suggestions
Here are a few meal ideas that fit the bill:
- Breakfast: Oatmeal, yogurt, a smoothie, or soft scrambled eggs
- Lunch: Soft cheese, a salad (without chewy meat), or warm soup
- Dinner: Soft pasta, mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables, or a smoothie
Foods to avoid after getting a filling
To protect your new filling and avoid discomfort, you may need to adjust your diet for a short time.
Some foods you should avoid include:
- Hard foods, such as nuts, hard candy, and ice.
- Chewy foods, such as gum, caramels, and sticky candy.
- Crunchy foods like chips, popcorn, and raw vegetables.
- Sugary foods and drinks, because they can cause decay and sensitivity.
- Very hot or cold foods and drinks, as these can also increase sensitivity.
What else should I do after getting a filling?
- Oral hygiene: Brush gently and floss carefully, even if your tooth is sensitive. Rinse with salt water to help it heal.
- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help with sensitivity, swelling, and sore gums.
- Bite check: Once the numbness wears off, check your bite. If it feels uneven, let your dentist know.
- Avoid teeth grinding: Grinding your teeth can damage the filling and your other teeth.
Managing tooth sensitivity after a filling
It’s normal to feel some sensitivity in the filled tooth. Usually, that sensitivity will disappear within a day or two.
Here are some things you can do to manage any discomfort:
- Brush with toothpaste made for sensitive teeth.
- Don’t eat or drink anything too hot or cold.
- Keep brushing and flossing gently.
Key Takeaways
What you eat after a filling matters. Following your dentist’s instructions for eating (and not eating) after a filling can help ensure the filling sets correctly and lasts as long as possible.
Good oral hygiene habits, like brushing and flossing, are also essential for the health of your fillings.
Finally, make sure to attend your regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can spot and treat any potential problems early on.