I am a bit concerned at the moment... I went to the dentist last month and got a new filling. Nil concerns or problems arose is int the process. The dentist noticed that one of my existing fillings was loose and said there was decay under it and therefore wanted to replace the filling.

I agreed to this and went back a couple of days ago. Even after local anesthetic, I could still feel them drilling into the tooth and was painful. Later that night when the anesthetic wore off I was in AGONY. Day 2 was a throbbing ache, which I will admit was bearable but not pleasant. Today is day 3 and I am still in pain... its a dull throbbing ache and I am concerned that there is something wrong. The dentist did comment after she did the filling that it was much deeper than she originally thought.

Does this mean I need a root canal? Is this type of thing normal? It was a silver filling btw. Any help or knowledge would be beneficial.

Rachaelznz...I feel your pain. Really! I can't speak for you, but that is exactly what happened to me the last time I had two fillings replaced in my back molars. Now I'm going through it again with these two new fillings. I'm going back today for an xray and off to another dentist for a second opinion next week. I know. The pain is unbearable. I will tell you this: do not delay and suffer in pain anylonger!! DEMAND that your dentist take care of you TODAY, and refer you to an endondontist ASAP. I was a royal pain in the you know what until they helped me. I was crazed with pain and wanted them to take care of it! It does seem that after replacing deep fillings, the nerve is somehow disturbed and that root canal seems to be the only way to stop the pain. If anyone out there is reading this, what are your experiences? We would both like to know. Please call your dentist back today. And at the very least, have him prescribe stronger pain meds to get you through this hurdle. I've been there...

I called my dentist yesterday to report my feelings but she was unavailable. She ended up calling me at 9:30 pm (late night surgery) saying that she wouldnt be in the clinic today but asked me a series of questions about my filling such as:
- Is it effecting your sleep?
- Is it sensetive to hot or cold?
- Does the pain subside on painkillers?
- Is it an unbearable pain?

After discussing my feelings on this matter she confirmed that some discomfort was reasonably normal considering how deep the cavity was etc. She said that if the pain doesnt ease by next week, then she wants me to come in for x-rays followed by a possible root canal. I feel like perhaps this should have been the first option saving me pain, time and of course money.

I will update next week with my pain progress.

- Rach

Rachaelznz

Just an update: my pain has subsided quite a bit after my two fillings on Tuesday. Maybe I will not need a root canal afterall. Hopefully! I cancelled my xray apt for today and will see how the pain is next week. It's manageable with Ibuprofen. I will tell you this: if your pain is getting worse, not responding to pain meds and unbearable, than you must get an xray. And yes, a root canal may be around the corner to relieve the pain. I think you and I may have deep fillings which are disturbing the nerves. (Makes me never want to get a filling replaced ever again)! Keep us all updated on your progress.

Interestingly enough the pain is becoming less and less. It is more a dull throb which is sometimes there and sometimes non existant which is odd. I dont need to take teh Ibefrofen anymore which is reassuring. It is somewhat frustrating that there is a nagging pain there (even if it is dull and manageable) I just want it to go away permanently. I must admit, it does seem to be improving and the thought of going back for more work is offputting enough to deter me from worringing about the dull ache. LOL

*sigh* I swear the cavity/old filling was nicer to have than the replacement filling! Even though I couldnt chew on that side anymore, it was still more pleasant to have! Will let you know if it ever feels better or worsens.

- Rach

Rachaelznz

Good for you! I know what you mean. I cancelled my dental appts since the pain was becoming less and less. I'm going to give it another week...or two...and maybe go to another dentist to get a 2nd opinion on my crown work and fillings. More for my peace of mind. Yes, I would rather have my sensitive old fillings back anyday. If this is the price to get new fillings, I may have to pass!