Ask Dr Toof

Why Does My Filling Hurt After Weeks?

LAST UPDATED:

October 9, 2025

Category:

Q:

Hi Dr. Toof, I hope you’re doing well! I’m a 45-year-old dad, and I wanted to ask about why my filling has been hurting even weeks after getting it done. I thought it would heal by now, but the discomfort is still there, especially when I eat something hot or cold. I just want to make sure everything is okay, as I’ve got two kids, ages 12 and 15, who might need fillings in the future, so I want to understand what to expect. Could it be normal, or should I be concerned? Thank you!

- Our follower on social media

Hello there! Thanks for reaching out. It sounds like you’ve been dealing with quite the annoyance. Discomfort after a filling can sometimes happen, but let’s dive into a few reasons why you might still be feeling pain. One possibility is that the filling itself isn’t perfectly aligned. If the filling is sitting a bit high, it might lead to an incorrect bite when you’re chewing. This can seem small but definitely cause discomfort. Another reason could be a bit more internal—perhaps some nerve irritation or an underlying tooth issue that wasn’t fully fixed during the initial treatment.

Now, what can you do about it? The best approach is to pop back to your dentist for a check. They can reassess the filling and make any necessary adjustments. If there’s more at play, such as nerve irritation, additional treatments like a root canal might be recommended. Sounds daunting, I know, but rest assured, it’s a common procedure aimed at saving the tooth.

In the meantime, let’s talk about making you more comfortable. Try avoiding foods and drinks that are too hot, too cold, or very sugary since these might exacerbate the pain. Over-the-counter pain relief can also help, just be sure to stick to the dosage instructions. These quick fixes might ease your discomfort until you get professional advice.

An important thing to remember is not to ignore the pain. It’s your body’s way of signaling that something might need further attention. Getting into the dentist sooner rather than later can prevent a relatively simple problem from becoming a major one down the road.

Lastly, keep those regular dental visits coming, even when everyone’s feeling fine. It’s a fantastic habit to instill in your kids early on. Regular check-ups can help catch potential issues before they snowball, making future dental visits less stressful for the whole family. Remember, taking care of your teeth is not just about fixing problems as they arise but about maintaining overall well-being.

About The Author

MDC 11249

Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) Jordan University of Science and Technology, 2018

Dr. Athirah is a highly skilled and dedicated dentist with a special focus on dental surgery and endodontics. She co-founded Dr Toof Dental Clinic to stay at the forefront of modern dentistry.

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