After getting a dental filling, the time you should wait before eating depends primarily on the type of filling material used and whether your mouth is still numb from anesthesia.
- Composite (tooth-colored) fillings: These harden immediately when cured with a UV light during the procedure, so you can usually eat as soon as you leave the dentist's office. However, dentists often recommend waiting at least 2 hours before eating to allow any numbness to wear off and to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue
- Amalgam (silver) fillings: These require about 24 hours to fully harden and reach maximum strength. You should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the filling was placed for at least 24 hours to prevent dislodging or damaging the filling
In all cases, it is advisable to avoid very hard, sticky, crunchy, or extremely hot or cold foods for at least 24 hours after the filling to minimize sensitivity and protect the new filling
. Summary:
- Wait at least 2 hours before eating after a composite filling (due to numbness), and avoid hard or sticky foods initially.
- Wait about 24 hours before chewing on the side with an amalgam filling.
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and avoid hot/cold or hard foods for the first day.
This approach helps ensure the filling sets properly and reduces discomfort or damage to the treated tooth
