Eusebio Dental
ALAMEDA, CALIFORNIA
Composite Filling
Simple Steps After Your Filling
What to Do Today
• Do not chew until the numbness is gone.
• Be careful with hot drinks while you are numb.
• Brush and floss as usual.
• Chew slowly the first time you use the new filling.
What to Expect Next
Tomorrow
• Use the tooth normally if it feels comfortable.
• Mild cold or pressure sensitivity can be normal.
• Call us if the filling feels too high when you bite.
Days 2-3
• Mild sensitivity should start to improve.
• A larger or deeper filling may stay sensitive longer.
Days 4-7
• The tooth should feel more normal.
• Call us if pain is strong, lasts, or is getting worse.
Later Healing
• Keep brushing twice a day and clean between your teeth daily.
• Keep regular dental checkups.
Pain Medicine
If you are sore and these medicines are safe for you, use the adult pain guide given by the office. Most filling soreness is mild and does not need medicine.
Adult doses only. Use these medicines only if they are safe for you.
• Mild or moderate pain: Take ONE — ibuprofen up to 600 mg OR acetaminophen up to 1,000 mg.
• More pain: Take BOTH together.
• Wait at least 6 hours before the next dose. Do not take more than 4 doses in 24 hours.
• Do not take more than 2,400 mg of ibuprofen or 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in 24 hours.
• Check all medicine labels for acetaminophen. Ask us, your doctor, or a pharmacist if you are not sure.
• Do not take either medicine if a doctor has told you to avoid it.
Normal Healing
• Mild cold sensitivity
• Mild gum soreness near the filling
• A tooth that feels different for a few days
• Slow improvement
Call Eusebio Dental
Call or text Eusebio Dental for:
• A bite that feels too high
• Pain when you bite
• Strong or throbbing pain
• Hot or cold pain that lasts
• A filling that chips, cracks, or falls out
• Swelling or fever
Emergency -
Call 911
Call 911 now for:
• Trouble breathing
• Severe swelling that makes it hard to breathe or swallow
• Bleeding you cannot control
You Might Be Wondering
Can I eat after a filling?
Yes, but wait until the numbness is gone so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
Why is the tooth sensitive?
The tooth may need time to calm down after treatment.
What if my bite feels high?
Call us. A small adjustment can often fix it quickly.
Can I brush and floss?
Yes. Clean the tooth as usual.
Helpful Tips
Why This Matters
• Chew slowly the first time you use the tooth.
• Use the other side while you are numb.
• Do not wait if the bite feels high. A high filling can make the tooth sore.
• Note what causes the pain: cold, heat, sweets, or biting.
• Waiting for numbness to fade helps prevent cheek and tongue bites.
• A balanced bite protects the tooth and filling.
• Daily brushing and flossing help prevent a new cavity around the filling.
Reviewed by:
Dr. Joseph Eusebio, DMD, MBA
Last Reviewed:
July 2026
Sources:
Composite Filling