A common question patients ask after having a filling is: “When can I eat again?”
The good news is you may not need to wait as long as you think, but the exact timing depends on the type of filling and where it was placed.
Why You Should Wait Before Eating After a Filling
Every mouth is different, but I usually give advice based on three main factors:
- The tooth that was filled – A front tooth may not be used much for chewing, but a molar or heavily used front tooth will be.
- The location of the filling – Some fillings are in areas that take more chewing pressure, while others are mostly cosmetic and do not make contact with other teeth.
- The filling material – Composite resin (tooth-coloured), amalgam (silver or metal), or temporary filling materials each behave differently after placement.
How Soon Can You Eat After Different Types of Fillings?
- Composite (tooth-coloured) fillings: You can eat as soon as the numbness wears off, usually within 1 to 3 hours after treatment.
- Amalgam (silver or metal) fillings: These take longer to set, so avoid chewing hard foods on that side for at least 24 hours.
- Temporary fillings: These are not as strong, so be gentle for the first few hours, and in some cases avoid chewing on the tooth until further treatment is complete.
So, if you have had a white composite filling today, you can usually enjoy your next meal once the anaesthetic has worn off. If you have had a silver amalgam filling, it is best to wait until the following day before testing it with anything chewy or crunchy.
My Tip: Regardless of the type of filling, avoid very hard, sticky, or crunchy foods immediately after your appointment. It is not that the filling cannot handle it, but your tooth and gums may feel tender.
Always wait until numbness from the anaesthetic has completely worn off so you do not accidentally bite your cheek or tongue, or burn your mouth with hot food or drinks.
Keep in mind that while these tips apply to many fillings, crowns and veneers may be different.
When should I contact my dentist after a filling?
Get in touch if you notice sensitivity when chewing, if the filling feels too high, if you have hot and cold sensitivity, or if you see chips or cracks. Otherwise, your filling will be checked at your next routine check-up and clean.
How can I protect my filling after it has been done?
Avoid biting into very hard or sticky foods, especially if you have had a tooth break this way before. If you clench or grind your teeth, we may recommend an occlusal splint to protect your teeth and fillings.
If you are considering getting a filling, find your nearest clinic and book an appointment with our experienced team at No Gaps Dental. We are here to help restore your smile with care and expertise.