I
Insight Horizon Media

Why does it hurt to chew where I got a filling?

Author

Christopher Anderson

Published Mar 18, 2026

Why does it hurt to chew where I got a filling?

Soreness of your mouth is very common after having a cavity filled, especially around the area of the affected tooth. It is also common to experience jaw pain. This happens because you’ve had to hold your jaw open for an extended period of time while the dentist works their magic.

Is it normal to have sharp pain after a filling?

When getting a filling, some minor pain and tooth sensitivity is normal. The pain usually goes away after a few hours, though, but sensitivity to hot and cold liquids might last up to a week.

What helps with cavity pain while pregnant?

Oral Health During Pregnancy

  1. Continue brushing your teeth and gums twice daily and flossing and rinsing your mouth once daily.
  2. Schedule your biannual dentist appointment as you normally would.
  3. Opt for sensitivity toothpaste, home remedies like clove oil for temporary pain relief if you experience painful inflammation.

Can you get nerve damage from a cavity filling?

An irritated nerve is not uncommon when a deep filling is placed. Irritated nerves can result in inflammation and can cause pain. Your enamel and cementum usually protect the nerve from exposure, but deep fillings can reach the nerve endings and cause uncomfortable, sharp sensations.

Should it hurt to chew after a filling?

Fillings are safe and effective, but some people might experience discomfort or tooth sensitivity afterward. Most of the time, this sensitivity is normal and will resolve within a few days or weeks.

Can cavities get worse after filling?

Regardless of what is causing pain in a tooth that has been filled, you can typically expect the pain to go away in one to two weeks. You should contact your dentist if the sensitivity does not subside at all within two to four weeks, or if you find the pain only getting worse and not improving at all.

Can tooth decay harm my unborn baby?

Cavities (also called tooth decay or caries). You can pass the bacteria that causes cavities to your baby during pregnancy and after birth. This can cause problems for your baby’s teeth later in life.

Can toothache harm my unborn baby?

4. Can a tooth infection harm my unborn baby? You should not take the presence of infection lightly while pregnant. The infection may cause severe discomfort and pain, which may directly or indirectly affect your baby.

When a filling is too close to the nerve?

If the filling is too close to the nerve, it may get infected slowly. Dentists can’t predict the time frame for the tooth to become infected. If infected, you may experience a throbbing pain or a dental abscess. 3.

When can I chew after a filling?

Your dentist will likely recommend waiting for at least 24 hours before chewing on the side of your mouth where the filling is located.

What does a leaking filling taste like?

One of the most likely causes of a metal taste in the mouth is a loose filling. An old filling made of metal can become loose and you will have a metallic taste in your mouth. It is important to have this taken care of as soon as possible.