The first hours
The numbing wears off over a few hours. Wait until it has before you eat, so you do not bite your lip, cheek or tongue. When you can eat depends on the material. A composite resin filling is hardened with a light, so you can eat once the numbness is gone. Metal fillings take longer to reach full strength, so we may suggest waiting about a day before chewing on them. For the first 24 hours, avoid foods that are very hard, tough or sticky and be gentle around the new filling.
What is normal
- Sensitivity to hot and cold in the treated tooth. It usually fades within a few days, though it can last a couple of weeks. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help.
- Soreness in the neighboring teeth. This is common and usually eases within a week or two.
- Mild gum soreness or inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers and an ice pack applied several times a day can help.
- Sharp or uneven edges once the numbness fades. These can be smoothed at a quick visit.
When to call us
- Your bite feels high or uneven. A filling that sits too high can hurt and may crack, so we will reshape it.
- Sensitivity lasts more than a couple of weeks or keeps getting worse.
- You have constant or throbbing pain. This can mean deeper irritation or infection, and the tooth may need a root canal.
- The filling cracks, chips or falls out. See what to do if you damage a filling.
How long fillings last
Most fillings last between five and 15 years, and some last longer. Typical ranges are:
- Composite resin: about 5 to 10 years
- Amalgam: up to about 15 years
- Ceramic: up to 15 years or more
- Gold: 20 years or more
- Glass ionomer: about 5 years, mostly used in baby teeth
Several things affect how long yours will last: the size and location of the filling (molars take more bite force), your oral hygiene, the material, genetics, and general health. Conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis and autoimmune disorders, dry mouth from some medications, and smoking can all shorten a filling's life.
How to make a filling last
- Brush twice a day, floss daily and use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended. Preventing new decay protects the edges of the filling.
- Avoid biting hard, sticky or chewy foods directly on the filling.
- Choose a balanced diet, limit sugary snacks and drink plenty of water.
- See us for checkups about twice a year. We examine your fillings and can catch a loose or worn one before it fails.
When a filling is damaged
Fillings can wear down, crack or loosen. Warning signs include new sensitivity, sharp edges, visible cracks or missing pieces, and discoloration around the filling. A damaged filling lets bacteria back in, so treating it promptly can prevent decay, pain and a bigger repair later. If the tooth is badly damaged, a crown may be the better answer. To learn how fillings are done, see our dental fillings guide.
Common questions
When can I eat after a filling?
Wait until the numbness has worn off. With a composite filling you can then eat normally. If you received a metal filling, we may ask you to wait about a day before chewing on it.
How long will my tooth be sensitive?
Mild sensitivity to hot and cold usually fades within days and sometimes a couple of weeks. Tell us if it lasts longer or gets worse.
Why does my bite feel off?
The filling may be a little high. It is a quick fix: we adjust the filling so your teeth meet comfortably.
How long do fillings last?
Typically five to 15 years or more, depending on the material, the tooth, your habits and your health.