BGZ Dental Turkey
- January 31, 2026
- 3 min read
- DDS. Fevzi BÜYÜKGEBİZ
People often ask, “When can I eat something?” after getting a tooth filling. The answer depends on the type of filling, the material used, and whether local anaesthesia was applied. Eating at the right time—and choosing the right foods—helps protect the filling and keeps you comfortable. Below, you'll find a step-by-step post-filling nutrition guide and practical aftercare tips.
What is a filling for a tooth?
A dental filling is a treatment used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay, wear, or trauma—so it can function properly, remain strong, and look natural. The main goal is to rebuild the lost tooth structure and help prevent further deterioration.
When is a dental filling needed?
Dentists use fillings to restore areas of the tooth that have been lost. Common reasons include:
- Cavities caused by tooth decay.
- Fractures or cracks from trauma or accidents.
- Natural wear and deterioration related to aging.
What is the dental filling procedure like?
During a dental filling procedure, your dentist typically follows these steps:
- Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia is applied to keep the procedure comfortable and pain-free.
- Cleaning: The decayed part of the tooth is removed and the area is cleaned and disinfected.
- Filling placement: The cavity is filled with a suitable material, shaped, and polished to restore natural bite and contour.
Types of dental fillings
The best filling material depends on the tooth location, biting force, and cosmetic expectations:
Fillings made of amalgam (Silver)
Amalgam fillings are durable and long-lasting (often around 12-15 years). They resist chewing forces well and are usually more cost-effective than tooth-coloured options.
Composite (White/resin) fillings
Composite fillings are tooth-coloured restorations designed to blend naturally with your smile. Many patients prefer them because they can closely match the shade of the surrounding tooth structure.
Benefits of dental fillings
- Extends the life of the tooth: Helps block bacteria and prevents decay from progressing to more invasive treatments such as root canal treatment.
- Supports oral hygiene: Restores smooth surfaces, making brushing and flossing more effective and helping reduce plaque build-up.
- Improves comfort: Can reduce sensitivity and pain, making it easier to chew and bite.
- Aesthetic result: Especially with composite fillings, the tooth can look very natural.
How long can you wait to eat after getting a filling?
When you can eat after a filling depends mainly on the filling material and how long the anaesthetic lasts.
Wait times based on the type of filling
Different materials set at different speeds:
Waiting period for composite (white) resin fillings
Composite fillings are hardened instantly using a special blue light. In theory, you can eat right away, but it’s best to wait 1-3 hours until numbness wears off.
Waiting time for amalgam (silver) fillings
Amalgam can take about 24 hours to fully harden and reach maximum strength. During this period, avoid chewing on the treated side and stay away from hard foods.
Why should you wait until the numbness wears off?
Local anaesthesia can last 3–6 hours (sometimes up to 8 hours). Eating while numb increases these risks:
- Biting injuries: You may accidentally bite your cheek, lip, or tongue.
- Burn risk: You may not feel hot temperatures in drinks like tea or coffee and burn your mouth.
Post-filling nutrition guide
After a filling, choose soft, easy-to-chew foods at room temperature. Avoid sticky, hard, and very hot/cold foods to protect the tooth and the new restoration.
Recommended (safe) foods
Mild sensitivity is common for a few days. These foods can help keep eating comfortable:
- Soft breakfast foods: Scrambled eggs, oatmeal, porridge, soft cereals soaked in milk.
- Main meals: Mashed potatoes, boiled vegetables, soft pasta, rice, well-cooked vegetable dishes.
- Snacks: Yogurt, room-temperature smoothies, soft cheeses, cottage cheese.
- Liquids: Lukewarm soups and water at room temperature.
Foods to avoid
To reduce the risk of shifting, cracking, or sensitivity, avoid the following—especially within the first 24 hours:
| Category | Foods to Avoid | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Sticky Foods | Chewing gum, caramels, toffees, peanut butter, sticky sweets | May pull at or dislodge a fresh filling—especially before it fully sets. |
| Hard Foods | Nuts, raw carrots, crusty bread, ice, hard candies, apples | Can apply excessive pressure and crack or loosen a new filling. |
| Hot and Cold Foods | Very hot tea/coffee, ice cream, soup straight from the stove | May trigger sensitivity and increase burn risk while numb. |
| Sugary or Acidic Foods | Fizzy drinks, fruit juices, citrus fruits, sugary cakes | May irritate the area and encourage bacterial activity around the filling margins. |
Tips and care to consider after a dental filling
- Chew on the other side: For the first 24 hours (especially with amalgam), chew on the untreated side until sensitivity reduces.
- Don't use a straw: Avoid using a straw for a few hours; suction may increase discomfort.
- Keep up oral hygiene: Brush and floss as normal. On the first day, floss gently around the filled tooth and slide floss sideways rather than snapping upward.
- Smoking and alcohol: Avoid tobacco and alcohol for 24 hours to support healing and reduce irritation.
When should you call your dentist?
Contact your dentist if you notice any of the following:
- Pain that doesn't improve after a few days or gets worse.
- Sharp pain when biting down.
- High bite feeling: If the tooth feels “higher” than the others when you close your teeth (this can stress the filling and cause it to crack).
- A filling that feels loose, moves, or breaks.
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