Experiencing Tongue Discomfort After Dental Fillings
I recently had dental fillings placed in my lower molars on both sides. About an hour post-procedure, I began to notice sharp sensations on the edges of my tongue that come into contact with the newly filled teeth. The pain is quite intense. Upon examining my mouth, I discovered a slight sharpness near the edges of both filled teeth, which seems to be the source of irritation for my tongue. Currently, my tongue is sore, and I’ve noticed some cuts along its sides accompanied by noticeable redness. The discomfort is significant, especially when I attempt to move my tongue. What steps can I take to alleviate this pain? Unfortunately, I’m unable to get to the dentist in the near future.
Answers (1)
8/1/2025, 8:20:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing discomfort from your tongue rubbing against the edges of your new dental fillings. This can happen if the fillings are slightly sharp or if they don’t fit perfectly, leading to irritation. Here’s how to manage the pain and discomfort until you can see a dentist.
Key Points:
- Sharp Edges: The fillings may need adjustment to avoid tongue irritation.
- Sore Tongue: Keep your tongue clean and avoid irritants.
- Self-Care: There are effective self-care steps to manage your symptoms temporarily.
Explanation:
After dental work, it’s common for your mouth to feel tender, especially if the fillings have sharp edges. Your tongue can become irritated or even develop cuts from contacting those edges frequently. The redness and soreness suggest inflammation, which can be quite uncomfortable.
Next Steps:
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Oral Hygiene: Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) multiple times a day. This can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
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Avoid Irritants: For a few days, avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods that can aggravate your tongue further. Stick to softer foods that don’t require much chewing.
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Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate pain. Follow the recommended doses on the packaging.
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Hydration: Ensure you stay hydrated, as dryness can make oral discomfort feel worse.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If the pain worsens or you notice signs of infection (like increased swelling or pus), it may be necessary to seek dental care as soon as you can.
Let me know if you have further concerns or need more detailed advice!
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