Photo of upper and lower teeth whitening trays in a blue case; for information on free teeth whitening from the office Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Why Do My New Composite fillings Hurt?

I’ve had to put off teeth whitening because I have four small composite fillings that are painful. I received the fillings in early September. I get a brief sharp pain when I chew hard or crunchy foods. The pain isn’t worse, but it’s consistent. Also, I’ve noticed that I don’t feel the pain when I clench my teeth tother.

After my online search about this issue, it seems that I need to find a dentist who uses self-etching primers or a glass ionomer base. I’ve called a few dental offices, but the receptionists don’t know what I’m talking about. How can I find the right dentist to replace the fillings? – Thanks. Eve from S. Carolina

Eve,

The sensitivity you describe occurs more often with small fillings than large ones.

Why Do New Composite Fillings Hurt?

The reason that new composite fillings hurt seems to be related to a dentist bonding the filling to dentin of the tooth. Most dental office receptionists are not familiar with self-etching primers or glass ionomer bases. Maybe a dental assistant who helps the dentist with the procedure might be familiar with the terms.

Although Dr. Lacy would need to examine your teeth, two possible solutions include:

Schedule an appointment to make your request – Before allowing a dentist to work on your teeth, insist on a glass ionomer base beneath the filling to protect the dentin and keep composite away from it. If the dentist doesn’t agree with your request, find another dentist.

Find an advanced cosmetic dentist – You might have to travel to find a cosmetic dentist who is familiar with self-etching primers and glass ionomer base. A dentist with post-graduate training in cosmetic dentistry knows how to protect your teeth, and you don’t have to explain your position or tell the dentist what materials you want in your teeth.

Photo of upper and lower teeth whitening trays in a blue case; for information on teeth alignment from the office Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.
Teeth whitening can further irritate sensitive teeth

Although a cosmetic dentist would usually whiten your teeth first and place the fillings afterward to match them, your teeth are sensitive. The bleaching gel can increase sensitivity. Speak with the dentist about the best time to start teeth whitening treatment.

Miranda Lacy, DDS, a Plano, TX, female dentist sponsors this post.