Restorations (Fillings)
What You May Experience
If you had local anesthesia (“Novocain”) there is a tendency to bite one’s tongue or cheek and a conscious effort must be made to avoid this. We ask that you especially observe your child for this possibility.
Some soreness and stiffness may be experienced for a day or two after the anesthetic has disappeared. This is normal and should be of no concern to you.
New dental restorations and tooth fillings are often sensitive to hot and cold as the cavity filling material will conduct temperature changes to the pulp (nerve) of the tooth. We paint an insulating base under all white fillings and amalgam fillings to help alleviate some of this sensitivity. If the dental restoration was deep, sedative cement was also placed under the dental restoration to aid in insulation and protection. Depending on the size of the cavity filling, and other factors, this sensitivity can last from a few weeks to a few months, or even longer.
If the cavity filling feels higher than the other teeth after the anesthetic has worn off, please call the Dakota Dental clinic and make an appointment in our Apple Valley dental care center for the filling to be adjusted. A high filling can result in increased sensitivity, possible fracture of the filling or tooth, and a change in bite. It is virtually impossible to tell if a tooth filling needs adjustment until the anesthetic has worn off, so please do not worry about this until tomorrow.
Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings) Restorations
The composite filling has reached its final hardness before you leave the office. You may feel free to eat anything after the anesthetic has worn off. You may brush normally and start flossing the new tooth colored filling today.
Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings) Restorations
The silver filling placed in your tooth will not reach its final hardness for a period of approximately 24 hours. We suggest, therefore, the following types of food to be eaten during this period: soup with no substance, mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, plain Jell-O, pudding, milk shake, fruit juices, macaroni, etc.
Any foods which may contain hard pieces of particulate matter (such as pepper, bone or pits) should be avoided. Do NOT floss near the new amalgam filling until tomorrow. You may brush normally.
If at any time you need immediate assistance, contact your Apple Valley dentists at Dakota Dental at 952.431.5774.