What can i eat after getting fillings

About the author: Dr David Chen, DDS

Table of Contents Show

What to Eat and What to Avoid After a Filling
Ideal Foods to Eat After a Tooth Filling
Foods to Avoid After a Dental Filling
Conclusion
How long after getting a filling can you eat?
What to avoid after having fillings?

Hello, I'm Dr Chen and I'm an actively practicing dentist in Long Island City, NY. I graduated from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in 2016 but prior to going to dental school I was already working in the dental field. It's been more than a decade since I first got to know dentistry and let me tell you, time flies by quickly. Since then I've developed a fondness for writing, which is how this all got started!

Association Memberships:

American Dental Association
New York State Dental Association
Queens Count Dental Society

Medical Disclaimer:

This blog is purely meant for information purposes and should not be used as medical advice. Each situation in your mouth is unique and complex. It is not possible to give advice nor diagnose any oral conditions based on text nor virtual consultations. The best thing to do is to go in person to see your dentist for an examination and consultation so that you can receive the best care possible.

The purpose of all of this oral health information is to encourage you to see your dentist and to inform you of what you may expect during your visit. Due to the unfortunate nature of dentistry, there isn't really any true home remedies that will get rid of dental problems. Roughly 99.99% of them require in-person intervention by a healthcare professional.

Hint: That is the reason why you can't eliminate seeing dentists in your life!

What to Eat and What to Avoid After a Filling

Unless you wish to see your dentist again in a day or two, do not dive into a bag of crunchy potato chips after getting a tooth filled! Dental fillings cause some sensitivity, so you should avoid chewing in the area of the filling for the next 24 hours. In addition, you should be careful about what to eat (and what not to eat) after a filling based on recommendations from dentists.

Ideal Foods to Eat After a Tooth Filling

Here are some of the best foods to eat after having a tooth filled:

Cooked Vegetables and Fruits
While uncooked fruits and vegetables require a great deal of chewing, cooking them makes them extra soft and easy to eat. Applesauce and mashed bananas are great options.

Smoothies
If you don’t want to compromise on taste to protect your tooth, prepare a delicious smoothie and enjoy it without worrying about chewing so soon after a filling. Use your favorite fresh fruit blended with milk, ice cream, or yogurt. There’s no reason to let a filling hold you back from a craving!

Protein Shakes
If you’re not a fan of smoothies, try a protein shake. It’s another healthy way to satisfy your appetite after getting a dental treatment.

Dairy Products
Perhaps the most nutritious and safest food to consider after a tooth filling are dairy products. That’s the reason dentists recommend cottage cheese, milk and yogurt after most dental treatments. Dairy products are often easy to chew and are rich in nutrients.

Foods to Avoid After a Dental Filling

After undergoing a tooth filling treatment, it’s best to avoid foods that are sticky, hard, or very hot or cold. Since your teeth are still recovering, chewing or ingesting these items can cause pain, trigger other dental complications, and/or dislodge your filling (which may require another visit to your local dental office).
To avoid these issues, you should stay away from foods such as peanuts, chips, granola, hard candies, hard bread, gum, sticky candies, popcorn, caramel, and other items that may put stress on your filling. While smoothies are recommended, make sure they aren’t too cold or hot. Don’t even think about having a very hot or icy cold drink until you’re fully recovered!
If you experience a situation where a tooth gets cracked or the filling is affected, stop eating and book another appointment with your local dental office.

Conclusion

We’re hopeful that these recommendations have helped you make good choices about what to eat and what not to eat after having a tooth filled.
If you haven’t had a tooth filling treatment before, be sure you choose your dentist wisely. Finding the best dentist in your area requires some research. Begin by asking your family and friends who they recommend in addition to checking out online reviews.

Hummingbird Dental, a full-service family dental office in Richmond Hill, is accepting new patients; call (905) 237-7976 to book an appointment today!

How long after getting a filling can you eat?

Dentists recommend patients who have had tooth filling to wait at least 2 hours before they resume eating anything. Even then, you should avoid very hard or sticky foods. Chewing a pizza requires greater effort by your teeth, especially when you're eating chicken or beef pizza.

What to avoid after having fillings?

It is best to avoid any hard, chewy, or sticky foods after a dental filling for up to two weeks. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity you may also benefit from avoiding hot or cold drinks and foods. There is no need to wait to brush your teeth after a dental filling.