If you’ve just had a dental filling, you might be wondering: “Can I eat now?” It’s a common concern — and the answer depends on the type of filling you received.
At our Canadian dental clinic, we make sure our patients leave with clear aftercare instructions, but here’s a helpful guide in case you need a quick refresher.
🦷 When Can You Eat After a Filling?
1. Tooth-Coloured (Composite) Fillings
These are the most common fillings today — and the good news is, you can usually eat right after the procedure! Composite fillings harden instantly using a special curing light.
However, we recommend:
- Waiting at least 1 hour before eating.
- Starting with soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or scrambled eggs.
- Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth for the first day, just to be safe.
2. Silver (Amalgam) Fillings
Still used occasionally for back teeth, amalgam fillings take longer to set.
For these:
- Wait at least 24 hours before chewing on the filled tooth.
- Stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hot, cold, or sticky.
- Be gentle when brushing around the area.
🍎 Foods to Avoid Right After a Filling
Regardless of the type of filling, you’ll want to avoid:
- Hard or crunchy snacks (like nuts or chips)
- Sticky foods (gum, toffee)
- Very hot or cold drinks (which may cause sensitivity)
- Chewing on the numb side of your mouth — you don’t want to accidentally bite your cheek or tongue!
🫥 What If You Feel Pain or Sensitivity?
Some mild sensitivity is totally normal for a day or two — especially to temperature or pressure. But if you notice:
- Ongoing pain or discomfort
- Sharp pain when biting down
- Sensitivity that lasts more than a week
Get in touch with your dentist. You might need a small adjustment to the filling.
Final Word: Listen to Your Mouth 👃
Your mouth will usually tell you what it’s ready for. After your filling, give yourself a little time to adjust, follow your dentist’s advice, and don’t rush into a crunchy snack too soon.
If you ever have questions after a treatment, our team is always here to help. Your comfort and recovery matter to us — every step of the way.
Looking for expert dental care in Canada? Book your next visit with us and experience gentle, modern dentistry you can trust.