- Do not eat until numbness has worn off to avoid biting your cheek, lip, or tongue.
- Use caution with hot foods while numb—you may not be able to judge temperature accurately.
- Your filling is fully hardened when you leave the office.
What to Expect:
- Some cold sensitivity is normal for a few days to a couple of weeks.
- This is usually due to temporary inflammation of the nerve, similar to how other tissues respond after minor procedures.
- It should gradually improve.
Call us if:
- Cold sensitivity lingers or worsens
- Pain to heat or spontaneous pain develops
- Pain with biting
- Your bite feels high or uneven
FAQ
Is sensitivity after a filling normal?
Some cold sensitivity is normal for a few days to a couple of weeks after a filling and should gradually improve.
When can I eat after a filling?
Do not eat until numbness has worn off so you do not accidentally bite your cheek, lip, or tongue.
Last updated: August 2026
Reviewed by Dr. Jeff Muszynski