Why does my tooth filling still hurt after a month of my treatment

Why does my tooth filling still hurt after a month of my treatment

For those who have had a tooth filling, there may be discomfort after the treatment. But how long would the discomfort last? And how long should you wait before returning to your dentist for a solution?

In this blog, we will answer the question ‘Why does my tooth filling still hurt after a month of my treatment?’

Over 40% of people in the Northwest of England have struggled to attend a dentist appointment, whether this be through failure to be referred by the NHS, or for other reasons. And when it comes to fillings, the longer you leave it, the worse the issue can become.

Whether it’s your eyes or teeth that are the issue, the team here at Eye & Dental Clinic are leading by example in both minor eye care and cosmetic dentistry, along with emergency dental treatment. Provided by real people whose aim and passion is to ensure remarkable clinical care so you can live comfortably.

Can anything go wrong with a tooth filling?

Tooth fillings are generally very successful procedures, but there are a few ways a filling can get messed up:

• Incomplete Decay Removal: If the dentist doesn’t remove all the decayed material before placing the filling, bacteria can continue to grow underneath it, leading to ongoing pain and infection.
• Faulty Filling Material: Improper handling or outdated filling materials can compromise the integrity of the filling, causing it to leak, crack, or chip over time. This allows bacteria to infiltrate and potentially cause new decay.
• Improper Placement: If the filling isn’t placed correctly, it might not create a tight seal with the tooth. This can lead to leakage, sensitivity, and increased risk of future decay.
• Dental Instrument Slips: During the filling procedure, accidental slips with dental instruments can damage the tooth or nerve, leading to post-filling sensitivity or pain.
• Allergic Reaction: In rare cases, some people might be allergic to the material used in the filling, causing inflammation, pain, and discomfort around the tooth.

When it comes to applying a filling, the experience and standards of the dentist you use may also play a part in the success of your treatment. That being said, there is always a chance that things may not work out perfectly, even if your dentist is a certified professional.

When it comes to understanding whether your dentist is professional or not, it is best to compare and contrast with customer reviews from the dentist you use and other dentists within the area. This will help you understand if the service is right for you.

Can dental products damage fillings?

Generally, most common dental hygiene products won’t damage your fillings directly. However, certain practices or improper use of some products can potentially affect the longevity of your fillings:

• Abrasive Toothpastes: While some toothpastes advertise strong whitening properties, these often contain abrasive ingredients that can wear down the surface of fillings over time. Stick to toothpastes with a “Dentist Recommended” label, and consult your dentist if you’re unsure about a specific brand.
• Incorrect Brushing Technique: Using a harsh brushing motion or applying excessive pressure can wear down both your tooth enamel and fillings. Use a soft-bristled brush and practice gentle, circular motions while brushing your teeth.
• Teeth Whitening Products: Some over-the-counter whitening products can cause temporary tooth sensitivity, including sensitivity in teeth with fillings. Consult your dentist before using any whitening products, especially if you have concerns about your fillings.
• Chewing on Hard Objects: Biting down on hard candies, ice cubes, or using your teeth for tasks like opening bottles can put stress on your fillings and potentially cause them to crack or chip.

Why does my tooth filling still hurt after a month of my treatment?

While some sensitivity after a filling is normal, pain persisting for a month warrants a visit to your dentist. Here are some reasons why your teeth might still hurt:

• Inflammation: The filling procedure itself can irritate the nerve of the tooth, causing temporary discomfort. This sensitivity usually subsides within a few days or weeks. However, if it persists for a month, it could indicate lingering inflammation requiring further evaluation by your dentist.
• Deep Filling: If the filling was placed close to the tooth’s nerve, it might take longer for the sensitivity to subside. Your dentist can assess the situation and recommend pain management options while the nerve heals.
• Incorrect Bite: In some cases, the filling might alter your bite slightly, causing discomfort when chewing. Your dentist can adjust the filling to ensure a proper fit and alleviate pain.
• Incomplete Removal of Decay: If not all the decayed material was removed before placing the filling, it could lead to continued irritation and infection, causing pain. Your dentist might need to replace the filling to address the remaining decay.
• Allergic Reaction: While rare, some people might be allergic to the material used in the filling, causing pain, swelling, and discomfort around the tooth. Your dentist can help identify an allergy and recommend alternative filling materials.

How to treat pain from a filling

Here are the methods you can try to alleviate any pain before your dentist visit:

• Contact your dentist: Don’t wait any longer. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your ongoing pain. They can examine your teeth, diagnose the cause of the discomfort, and recommend the appropriate treatment.
• Pain management: In the meantime, you can try over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage the discomfort. In some cases, application of clove oil in the area can be helpful. However, don’t rely on medication in place of professional dental care.

What happens if I don’t treat tooth pain from a filling?

Ignoring a toothache caused by a problematic filling can lead to some potentially serious consequences:

• Increased Pain and Inflammation: If the root cause isn’t addressed, the pain is unlikely to disappear on its own and might even worsen. The inflammation can spread, causing throbbing pain and discomfort.
• Infection: If the discomfort stems from incomplete decay removal or a damaged filling allowing bacteria to seep in, leaving it untreated can lead to a full-blown infection. This can cause significant pain, swelling, and sensitivity, and might even extend to the jawbone.
• Abscess Formation: An abscessed tooth is a pocket of pus that forms due to a dental infection. It can be extremely painful and requires prompt treatment with antibiotics and potentially surgical drainage.
• Tooth Loss: Left untreated, a serious infection can damage the pulp (inner tissue) and root of the tooth. In severe cases, this could ultimately lead to tooth loss.
• Additional Health Risks: Untreated dental infections can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream, potentially leading to complications in your heart, sinuses, or even brain.
• Costlier Treatment: Early intervention is key for affordable and less invasive treatment. Ignoring the pain might necessitate more complex procedures like root canals or tooth extractions, along with antibiotics and potential follow-up appointments, leading to higher overall costs.

Eye and dental clinic: Our services

Here at Eye & Dental clinic, we don’t just deal with fillings, we also provide services for:

• Invisalign.
• General dentistry.
• Composite bonding.
• Dental implants.
• Veneers.
• Dental emergencies.
• Crowns and bridges.
• Dentures.
• Teeth whitening.
• General checkup.

Book a dental appointment today

In this blog, we hope to have provided an answer to the question ‘Why does my tooth filling still hurt after a month of my treatment?’ Whilst also giving you supplementary guidance, in addition to the stellar, affordable and professional services we offer for your teeth and eyes.

To gain some insight into our amazing team who do their absolute best for you, follow this link. Want to read more? Click here to check out our blog page. You can also contact us here.

Address:

110 Ainsworth Rd, Bury, BL8 2RS, Lancashire.

Telephone:

01615 245 828

Email:

Bury@eyeanddentalclinic.com

Back to Blog