Having a cavity filled is an extremely simple process. You walk into the dental centre with the cavity, and shortly afterwards, you're walking out again with a restored tooth. Is it then straight back to business as usual in terms of eating and drinking?

A Few Possible Obstacles

While you can generally eat immediately after a cavity has been filled, there are a few possible obstacles to consider. Firstly, your jaw may still be numb from the procedure, meaning that it may be difficult to chew properly directly after having a cavity filled. This will quickly wear off, although there can be some lingering sensitivity.

Exercise Some Caution

Any sensitivity can largely be avoided by being cautious about what you eat and drink after having a cavity filled. Your tooth can be aggravated by food and drink that's excessively hot or cold, so your newly restored tooth can protest if you eat ice cream or drink a piping hot cup of coffee. This sensitivity should only be an issue for a day or two, and then your restored tooth won't register these temperature extremes.

Allow Setting Time

Sensitivity aside, you need to be sure that your new filling can withstand the bite pressure of chewing food. This depends on the filling material that was used, and your dentist will give you specific instructions. Fillings that are made of a composite dental resin harden immediately after application, so the restored functionality of the tooth is immediate (even though it will still require some temporary considerations). Other filling materials may require some hours to fully set, and your dentist will advise you if this should apply in your case.

Avoid Excessive Bite Pressure

Even though the tooth's functionality has been restored, you should still be vigilant that you don't aggravate your tooth, as this can jeopardise your new filling. Avoid hard foods that require a great deal of chewing, as this can expose your tooth and its restoration to prolonged bite pressure, which is unwise in the days immediately after a filling has been applied. Sticky foods should also be avoided immediately after a filling. These foods can create a suction action, which can conceivably loosen a new filling. Soft, easy-to-chew foods are best, and you should chew on the unaffected side of your mouth.

These post-filling chewing requirements are only temporary, and within a day or two, it really is business as usual in terms of your diet. Reach out to the staff at a dental centre to learn more.