Five Possible Side Effects Of Dental Filling.

Five Possible Side Effects of Dental Filling

Dental fillings are a common dental procedure that is used to treat cavities or tooth decay. The filling material is usually a metal, porcelain, or composite resin, which is used to fill in the damaged area of the tooth. While dental fillings are generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects that may occur. These side effects can range anywhere from mild to serious and may include pain, sensitivity, gum inflammation, and more. If you are considering getting a dental filling, it is paramount to be aware of these potential side effects. In this post, we will discuss five possible side effects of dental fillings.

What are dental fillings?

Dental fillings are used to treat cavities or tooth decay. They are also used to repair cracked or broken teeth and to help prevent further decay. Fillings can be made from a broad variety of materials, including gold, silver, composite resin, and ceramic.

How do you know when it’s time for a filling?

It is not always that easy to tell if you need a dental filling. Sometimes, the damage to your tooth is visible, such as a large cavity or chip. Other times, the decay is hidden and can only be detected by your dentist during a regular checkup.

Here are some signs you may need a dental filling:

•You have a toothache or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures

•You see visible pits or cavities on your teeth

•You notice changed colouration in your teeth

•You feel pain when you bite down

•Your gums are sore or inflamed

Types of Dental Fillings

•Amalgam (silver)

An amalgam dental filling is a type of dental filling that uses a silver-coloured alloy to fill cavities in teeth. The silver in amalgam fillings is made up of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Amalgam fillings have been used for over many years and are still considered one of the most durable and long-lasting types of dental fillings available. Although they are not as aesthetically pleasing as other types of dental fillings, such as composite resin, they are much less likely to chip or crack over time.

•Composite resin (tooth-coloured)

Composite resin fillings are made up of a plastic and glass mixture. This type of filling can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth, making it an ideal choice for front teeth or visible areas of your smile.

While composite resin fillings are strong and durable, they are not as long-lasting as silver amalgam fillings. Composite resin fillings may also require more time and effort to place than silver amalgam fillings. However, many patients prefer the aesthetic appeal of tooth-coloured composite resin fillings over metal fillings.

•Gold

There are many types of dental fillings, but gold is one of the most popular. Gold fillings are made from a mix of gold and other metals, and they are very strong and durable. They can last for many years, and they look great. Gold fillings are also very expensive, so they are not an option for everyone.

•Ceramic

Ceramic fillings are made from a glass and porcelain mixture. They are tooth-coloured and less visible than other types of dental fillings. Ceramic fillings can also be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth.

Possible Side Effects of Dental Filling

1. Increased Sensitivity 

If you have your teeth filled, you may experience a heightened sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This is because the filling material can conduct heat and cold more easily than your natural tooth structure. If this happens, it is usually only temporary and will ease once your teeth adjust to the filling. In the meantime, you can try using a desensitizing toothpaste or rinsing with a warm salt water solution to help reduce the sensitivity.

2. Discomfort When Eating

Some people may experience discomfort when eating after getting a dental filling. This is usually because the filling material is placed directly on the tooth nerve, which can be sensitive to pressure or temperature changes. If you experience this type of discomfort, it should go away within a few days as your tooth adjusts to the new filling.

If you have any concerns about discomfort after getting a dental filling, be sure to talk to your dentist. They can help you determine if your discomfort is normal or if there is something else going on that needs to be addressed.

3. Allergic Reaction

An allergic reaction to a dental filling is a rare but serious side effect. If you have an allergy to any of the materials used in dental fillings, you may experience a reaction when the filling is placed. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include:

•Itching

•Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat

•Difficulty breathing

•Rashes

•Nausea and vomiting

If you experience such symptoms after having a dental filling placed, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. An allergic reaction can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

4. Constant throbbing toothache

If you experience a constant throbbing toothache after getting a dental filling, it’s vital to see your dentist right away. While this isn’t necessarily a common side effect of dental fillings, it can indicate that the filling wasn’t placed properly or that there is presences of an infection in the tooth. Treating these issues early on will help to ensure that your tooth remains healthy and doesn’t cause further pain or damage.

You may also experience some pain in the neighbouring teeth. This is because the filling can put pressure on the adjacent teeth and cause them to become irritated. If this happens, you may need to visit your dentist to have the filling adjusted.

5. Infection

Dental fillings are a common and effective way to treat cavities, but like any medical procedure, there is a small risk of infection. Symptoms of an infection after a dental filling may include:

•swollen lymph nodes

•fever

•pain or redness around the filling

•pus or drainage from the filling site

If you experience any of such symptoms, it’s paramount to see your dentist right away. Treatment for an infection may include antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgery.

Bottom Line

Dental fillings are a common and effective treatment for cavities, but like all medical procedures, there are some potential side effects that patients should be aware of. In most cases, these side effects are minor and temporary, but in rare instances, they can be more serious. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects after having a dental filling, be sure to contact us at Bayswater Dentist right away.