Pain or Numbness After a Dental Filling? What’s Normal and When to Call Your Dentist

Dental fillings are a standard, effective way to treat cavities and preserve tooth structure but it’s common to have questions about the recovery. After all, even a routine procedure can leave you wondering: how long does numbness last after dental filling treatment? And is it normal to experience pain after a dental filling?

While some discomfort is expected, it’s important to understand which symptoms are part of the healing process and which may signal the need for a follow-up. In this guide, we’ll explain what to expect after getting a filling, when post-treatment pain is normal, and when you should reach out to your dentist.

What to Expect After a Dental Filling

Mild discomfort or temporary numbness after a filling is completely normal. In fact, most patients will experience at least one of the following:

• Lingering numbness due to local anesthesia
• Sensitivity to pressure, temperature, or sweets
• Minor soreness when chewing
• Irritation near the injection or gumline

These symptoms are usually short-lived and can be managed with at-home care.

How Long Does Numbness Last After Dental Filling Treatment?

Local anesthesia is used during fillings to keep you comfortable and pain-free. Typically, the numbness begins to wear off within 1 to 3 hours of your appointment. However, the duration can vary depending on:

• The location of the injection (lower jaw injections often last longer)
• The amount of anesthetic used
• Your individual metabolism and body response

During this time, avoid chewing, biting your cheeks or lips, or drinking hot liquids, as you may not feel injuries until the anesthesia wears off. If numbness persists beyond 4 to 5 hours, you should contact your dentist it may be a rare case of prolonged nerve response, which requires evaluation.

Is Pain After Dental Filling Normal?

Some pain after dental filling procedures is common, especially if:

• The cavity was deep and close to the nerve
• You have temporary pulp inflammation (reversible pulpitis)
• There’s mild bruising from the injection
• The new filling has slightly altered your bite alignment

This type of discomfort is typically mild to moderate and resolves within a few days. You might feel pressure when chewing, brief temperature sensitivity, or general soreness around the treated tooth.

Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) and soft foods can help ease this recovery phase.

When to Be Concerned: Pain That Signals a Problem

While mild symptoms are expected, some forms of pain or lingering numbness may indicate that something’s not quite right.

Contact your dentist if you experience:

• Pain that lasts longer than 7–10 days
• Sharp, shooting, or throbbing pain
• Increased sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
• Pain when chewing that worsens over time
• Swelling, tenderness, or visible gum inflammation
• Persistent numbness or tingling after the anesthesia should have worn off

These symptoms could point to:

• A high filling that affects your bite and causes pressure ‍
• Irreversible pulpitis, where the nerve inside the tooth is too inflamed to recover
• A crack in the tooth not visible during the initial procedure
• An allergic reaction to filling material (rare)
• A developing infection or abscess

In some cases, a simple adjustment or replacing the filling can resolve the issue. In others, further treatment like a root canal may be necessary to protect the tooth.

Can a Dental Filling Cause an Emergency?

While uncommon, pain that intensifies or spreads may require immediate care especially if it’s accompanied by swelling, fever, or difficulty biting down. A cracked tooth, loose filling, or infection can escalate quickly.

If your discomfort feels urgent, don’t hesitate to seek emergency care. To learn more about managing urgent symptoms, see our related blog:
Emergency Dentistry: A Guide to Handling Dental Emergencies with Care

Managing Pain After a Filling: Tips for a Smooth Recovery

If your symptoms are mild and improving, the following tips can help support a quicker, more comfortable healing process:

• Avoid chewing on the treated side for 24 hours, especially if you received an amalgam (metal) filling ‍
• Stick to soft foods and avoid extreme temperatures for a few days ‍
• Use a desensitizing toothpaste if you experience cold or sweet sensitivity ‍
• Take OTC medications as recommended for pain or inflammation ‍
• Rinse with warm salt water if your gums feel sore or irritated

Monitoring your symptoms over the first 3–7 days is key. If they’re subsiding and your bite feels normal, your recovery is likely on track.

When You Might Need an Adjustment

One of the most common sources of post-filling discomfort is a bite that feels off. If the filling is slightly too high, it can cause uneven pressure when chewing. This may result in pain, headaches, or jaw discomfort.

Fortunately, it’s an easy fix. A quick adjustment in the dental chair can rebalance your bite and eliminate the issue so don’t wait to call if something feels off.

Trust Your Smile to West Soho Dentistry

At West Soho Dentistry in New York, your comfort is our priority not just during your treatment, but in the days that follow. Dr. Joanne Oh and our team provide clear guidance on what to expect after a filling, monitor your healing closely, and are always available to address concerns early before they become complications.

Whether you're wondering how long does numbness last after dental filling treatment or experiencing unexpected pain after a dental filling, we’re here to help you feel informed, reassured, and well cared for.

Don’t wait in discomfort. Schedule your appointment today and let’s make sure your smile is healing exactly the way it should.