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Filling Aftercare

Just had a filling? Follow these simple guidelines while the tooth settles. Call us at our Overland Park or Olathe office with any concerns.

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Medically reviewed by Nick Natanov, DDS, MBA · June 2026

What should you do after a filling?

A filling restores a tooth after decay is removed. These steps help you stay comfortable while the tooth settles.

Wait Out the Numbness

Avoid eating until the numbness wears off, usually one to three hours, so you do not bite your cheek, lip, or tongue.

Tooth Colored Fillings Set Right Away

Tooth colored fillings are fully set when you leave, so you can eat once sensation returns.

Go Easy With Metal Fillings

If you had a silver filling, it is best to wait about a day before chewing hard foods on that side.

Expect Mild Sensitivity

Sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure for a few days is common as the tooth settles.

Keep Brushing and Flossing

Continue your normal brushing and flossing right away, including the treated tooth.

Manage Soreness

If the area is tender, over the counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen usually helps.

Watch the Bite

If the filling feels high or your bite is off once the numbness is gone, call us for a quick adjustment.

Watch for Lasting Pain

Sensitivity should fade within a week or two. Pain that lingers or worsens should be checked.

Learn more about family and preventive dentistryView →

What does recovery after a filling look like?

Most people feel normal within a day or two. Here is what to expect.

First few hours
Numbness wears off over one to three hours. Avoid chewing until sensation returns so you do not bite yourself.
First day
Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure is common. A tooth colored filling is ready to use right away.
First week
Sensitivity eases as the tooth settles. Keep brushing and flossing normally.
Two weeks
Most sensitivity is gone. Pain that lingers beyond this should be evaluated.

What is normal, and when should you call us?

This is normal

  • Mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure for a few days
  • Tenderness around the tooth at first
  • A slightly different feeling when you bite at first
  • Sensitivity that improves a little each day

Call us right away if

  • A bite that feels high or uneven after the numbness wears off
  • Sharp pain when biting down
  • Sensitivity or pain that gets worse or lasts beyond two weeks
  • A filling that feels loose, cracked, or falls out

Call (913) 948-9488 (Overland Park) or (913) 247-1315 (Olathe).

Frequently asked questions

How long should I wait to eat after a filling?+
If you had a tooth colored filling you can eat once the numbness wears off. Wait until sensation returns so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
Why is my tooth sensitive after a filling?+
Mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is common for a few days to a couple of weeks as the tooth settles, then it fades.
My bite feels off after a filling. Is that normal?+
A filling can sit slightly high at first. If the bite still feels uneven once the numbness is gone, a quick adjustment fixes it.
How long does sensitivity last after a filling?+
Usually a few days, and up to a week or two. Sensitivity or pain that gets worse or lasts longer should be checked.
Can I brush normally after a filling?+
Yes, keep brushing and flossing normally right away, including the treated tooth.

Our sources

The guidance on this page reflects recommendations from leading dental and medical organizations.

American Dental AssociationMouthHealthy guide to filling optionsVisit →American Dental AssociationMouthHealthy guide to composite fillingsVisit →

This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional dental care.

Overland Park (913) 948-9488 Olathe (913) 247-1315