After getting a dental filling, the time to wait before eating depends on the type of filling:
- For composite (tooth-colored) fillings, you can usually eat within 1 to 2 hours because the material hardens almost immediately under UV light. However, it is best to wait until the numbness from the anesthetic wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
- For metal amalgam fillings, it is recommended to wait about 24 hours before eating solid or hard foods because the material takes longer to fully harden.
In all cases, start with soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, or smoothies and avoid very hot, cold, hard, sticky, or acidic foods for at least 24 hours to protect the filling and reduce sensitivity. Also, chew on the side of the mouth opposite the filling initially.
In summary, you can eat after a filling once the numbness fades, usually a couple of hours for composite fillings, and after 24 hours for amalgam fillings, starting with soft foods and avoiding chewing on the filled tooth for some time.
