Tooth fillings are a routine way to fix teeth damaged by cavities. You get a filling to stop the pain, not keep it going. So, if you got a filling months ago and now you’re suddenly experiencing pain, something’s not right.
While fillings should eliminate discomfort, experiencing pain months later could point to underlying issues that need to be addressed. This article will explore some of the common reasons why your tooth filling might hurt after months and what you can do about it.
Why does my tooth filling hurt months later?
It’s frustrating to have a tooth filling put in, only to have it start hurting again months later. Here are a few potential explanations for why that might be happening.
Recurrent tooth decay
Even after a filling, tooth decay can start again around the edges of the filling itself. If you aren’t consistent with good oral hygiene, decay can take hold in the tiny gaps between the filling and the tooth. This secondary decay can irritate the nerve inside the tooth and cause pain.
Leaking filling
Fillings can sometimes become damaged, allowing bacteria and food particles to get underneath them. This leakage can cause sensitivity and pain. A leaking filling is definitely a potential reason for pain months after you get a filling.
Tooth fracture
Small cracks can develop in the tooth around the filling. These cracks or fractures may not be noticeable at first, but they can worsen over time and cause pain.
Bruxism and clenching
If you grind or clench your teeth, you could be putting too much pressure on the filling and the surrounding tooth structure. This pressure can inflame the tissues around the tooth and cause pain. Bruxism can also cause wear and tear on fillings, potentially leading to the problems discussed above.
Other Less Common Reasons for Pain
There are also a few less common reasons your tooth filling might hurt months after the procedure.
Sensitive Teeth
Sometimes, a tooth filling can make you more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods, which can lead to tooth pain. This sensitivity can be caused by the filling material or by exposed dentin, the tissue that makes up the main part of the tooth.
Allergic Reaction
It’s rare, but you could be allergic to the filling material. If you are, it can cause inflammation and discomfort in the area around the filling.
Infection
An infection in the tooth or gums can sometimes cause pain around the filling. This is more likely if the filling was placed close to the tooth’s nerve.
What to do if your tooth filling hurts
If your tooth filling is causing you pain, here’s what you should do:
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss every day to get rid of plaque and food particles. This can prevent further decay around the filling.
- Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the affected tooth. This minimizes stress on the filling and the surrounding tooth.
- See your dentist ASAP. Ongoing pain in a filled tooth is a sign that you need to see a dentist. Ignoring the pain could lead to more serious problems. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Medicines like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage the pain until you can get to the dentist. Use them as directed.
The Bottom Line
It’s important to address any tooth pain that lingers months after you get a filling. Nagging pain in a filled tooth could mean there’s a problem that needs attention.
The best things you can do are practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist as soon as possible. They can determine the cause of the pain and recommend the right treatment.
Taking care of the problem early can save your tooth and keep you from needing more extensive and expensive dental work down the road.