Sensitivity After filling

[Emmy89]

Last Thursday I had a filling done on number 18. I believe it was a composite filling because it is tooth colored. anyway, after the filling i have sensitivity to cold around the tooth. There is no pain when i bite down or when my teeth come together .I only have discomfort when cold temperature comes into contact with my tooth. I've heard that composite fillings can do this. My dentist said he got it all out he kept drilling until he did so I'm not sure why there is sensitivity. If this is a normal side effect , How long will it last?

[lynn117]

since you are describing it as discomfort instead of actual pain i would give it a bit more time. perhaps try a toothpaste for sensitive teeth. watch out for heat sensitivity which could mean you have an infection and if the cold sensitivity remains after a week or two contact your dentist. the drilling can irritate the nerve and a calming down period could be necessary.

[mammo]

You shouldn't have any sensitivity to cold or heat.  It sounds as if maybe there is an opening somewhere in the filling or the tooth is cracked.  If it continues I would go back to him, you may also need a root canal which your dentist should have known.

[lynn117]

many times there is residual sensitivity due to mild trauma while drilling. if it doesnt feel better soon a repeat visit is advised but with the only symptom being mild cold sensitivity nothing indicates an impending root canal.

[mammo]

Sensitivity if often due to a nerve being exposed due to decay or the cracking of a tooth, or lost filling.  This most often results is a root canal.