What are the reasons for pain when eating after getting a dental filling?

Generally, pain when eating after a dental filling may be caused by tooth sensitivity, occlusal adjustment period, periodontal disease, pulpitis, or apical periodontitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and identify the underlying cause under the guidance of a professional doctor before receiving appropriate treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Tooth Sensitivity

During the filling procedure, dental materials coming into contact with the tooth may temporarily irritate the dental pulp nerve, leading to tooth sensitivity and causing pain when eating after the filling. It is advisable to avoid spicy or irritating foods shortly after the filling to help alleviate discomfort.

2. Occlusal Adjustment Period

After a filling, the addition of restorative material may slightly alter the bite relationship, requiring a certain adaptation period. This can result in mild pain during chewing. Avoiding hard foods in the short term after the filling can aid in better recovery.

3. Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is usually caused by dental plaque and tartar. If oral hygiene is poorly maintained after a filling, periodontal disease may develop, leading to pain when eating. Common symptoms include gum bleeding, gum swelling, and pain during chewing. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as doxycycline hydrochloride tablets, amoxicillin capsules, and vitamin C tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Pulpitis

Pulpitis is typically caused by bacterial infection or physical/chemical irritation. The filling procedure may stimulate inflamed areas, resulting in pain when eating after the filling. Symptoms may include tooth pain, swelling, and discomfort during chewing. Treatment may include metronidazole and artificial bezoar capsules, levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules, or tinidazole tablets, as directed by a physician.

5. Apical Periodontitis

Apical periodontitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues around the tooth root tip. During the filling process, these tissues may become injured, triggering inflammation and causing pain when eating after the filling. Common symptoms include tooth pain, looseness, and pain while chewing. Under medical supervision, medications such as dexamethasone acetate tablets, cefdinir capsules, and roxithromycin capsules may be prescribed for treatment.

It is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene after a filling, consistently use proper brushing techniques at regular intervals, and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods in the short term to support overall oral health.