Getting a dental filling is a standard procedure that helps restore the health of your teeth, but many patients often wonder, “Can you eat after a dental filling?” The short answer is yes but with some essential guidelines. Let’s explore what to eat, how long to wait, and tips to keep your filling in excellent shape.
Table of Contents
Why Waiting to Eat After a Filling is Important
It is tempting to dive back into your usual eating routine after a filling; however, the duration of your wait after a composite filling depends on the type of filling and the state of your mouth.
- Numbness from anesthesia: The numbness after filling can last a few hours. Eating while your mouth is numb can accidentally bite your cheeks or tongue.
- Setting time for fillings: Composite fillings harden almost immediately with the help of curing light, but chewing on the side without filling initially helps prevent unnecessary pressure.
- Protecting the filling’s durability: Proper aftercare, including monitoring what and when you eat, impacts the durability of the filling.
How Long to Wait After a Filling to Eat
For composite (tooth-colored) fillings, you can generally eat right away; however, hot drinks or crunchy foods after a dental filling should be avoided for a few hours to protect the material. If you have amalgam (metal) fillings, you will need to wait at least 24 hours for them to set fully.
Eating too soon or choosing the wrong foods can compromise the filling and lead to further dental issues.
Best Foods to Eat After a Filling
Choosing the right foods can make a big difference in your comfort and the health of your filling.
Eating Soft Foods After Filling
Soft foods are ideal, as they minimize pressure on the newly filled tooth. Examples include the following:
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
Foods to Avoid After Dental Filling
Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can dislodge or damage the filling. Steer clear of the following:
- Candy and gum (chewing gum after dental filling is a no-go!)
- Crunchy snacks like chips or nuts
- Tough meats
Cold Foods After Dental Filling
Some people experience sensitivity to food after filling particularly hot or cold items. Stick to room-temperature foods initially.
Dental Filling Aftercare Tips
Follow the following tips to protect your filling and enjoy a smooth recovery:
- Chewing on the side without filling
- If possible, chew using the unaffected side of your mouth for the first day.
- Drinking liquids after filling
- Stick to water and avoid sugary or acidic drinks for a few hours.
- Maintaining an eating routine after dental visit
- Regular meals are fine but gradually we should introduce harder or more textured foods.
- Monitoring sensitivity
- It is normal to experience sensitivity to food after filling for a few days. If it persists or worsens, consult your dentist right away.
Final Thoughts
You are taking the time to adjust your eating habits after a filling, which is critical to protecting your dental work. Stick to soft, non-irritating foods, avoid extreme temperatures, and let your mouth breathe. For more dental filling aftercare tips, check out other blogs on our website.
