After Caries Treatment
Detailed recommendations for patients after caries treatment and filling placement.
Patient Memo
These are general recommendations after caries treatment. The doctor’s individual instructions always take priority.
Step-by-step recovery plan
First 2–3 hours
- Do not eat until the anesthesia has worn off.
- Drink cool water in small sips.
First 24 hours
- Avoid very hard and sticky foods on the side of the filling.
- If the filling is temporary, protect it from heavy chewing.
- Tooth sensitivity may occur.
Days 2–3
- Sensitivity usually decreases.
- Continue normal oral hygiene and use dental floss.
- If discomfort persists, inform your doctor.
If a temporary filling was placed, follow the timeline for your follow-up visit. Do not attempt to remove it yourself.
What you can and cannot do
| CAN | CANNOT |
|---|---|
| Drink water in small sips | Eat before the anesthesia has worn off |
| Eat soft foods during the first day | Chew hard or sticky foods on the side of the filling |
| Brush teeth with a soft toothbrush | Ignore the feeling of a “high” filling |
| Use floss and an irrigator as usual | Pick at the filling with toothpicks or foreign objects |
If sharp pain occurs when biting or the filling interferes with your bite, correction is required.
Normal reactions after caries treatment
Sensitivity
Short-term sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods may occur for 2–7 days.
Mild pain
Mild discomfort after deep treatment is possible and usually resolves gradually.
Feeling of a “new” filling
During the first few days, the new filling may feel noticeable — this is normal.
When to seek urgent medical care
Contact your doctor as soon as possible if:
- pain increases and does not resolve within 3–5 days
- pain occurs when biting or there is a feeling of a “high” filling
- pronounced sensitivity to heat appears
- swelling of the gum or cheek develops
- body temperature is above 38 °C
Frequently asked questions
After the anesthesia has worn off, usually in 2–3 hours.
Sensitivity after treatment is possible and usually resolves within a week.
Contact your doctor for a quick adjustment. This is important to prevent pain.
Recommended products
Toothpaste for sensitive teeth
Use as a course if discomfort is present.
Follow individual care and prevention recommendations provided by your doctor.
