Getting a dental filling is a routine procedure designed to restore a tooth damaged by decay. By removing the decayed portion and filling the space, your dentist protects the tooth from further damage and brings it back to its normal function and shape. A properly placed filling should feel natural, blending seamlessly with your other teeth.
However, sometimes a filling can feel “high,” causing discomfort and an uneven bite. If you’ve recently had a cavity filled and something doesn’t feel quite right, you’re in the right place.
This guide will explain the symptoms, causes, and potential complications of a high filling. We’ll also cover the proper steps to address the issue and ensure your bite is comfortable and correct.
Key Takeaways
- A high filling occurs when it hasn’t been shaped correctly, preventing your teeth from meeting properly.
- Symptoms include an uneven bite, pressure, sensitivity, and pain in the tooth, jaw, or head.
- Ignoring a high filling can lead to serious issues like a cracked tooth, TMJ disorders, and persistent pain.
- Do not try to fix a high filling at home. Contact your dentist for a simple and quick adjustment.
What is a High Filling?
A high filling, also known as having a “high bite” or “occlusal interference,” happens when the filling material extends slightly above the natural surface of your tooth. When you bite down, this high spot makes contact with the opposing tooth before your other teeth do. This disrupts the natural alignment of your bite, creating an imbalance.
After placing a filling, your dentist will typically ask you to bite down on a piece of articulating paper. This colored paper marks the high points on the filling that need to be adjusted. While this process is usually effective, sometimes a small high spot can be missed, especially if your mouth is still numb from anesthesia.
Symptoms of a High Filling
The signs that your cavity filling is too high can range from subtle to severe. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:
- An Uneven Bite: This is the most immediate sign. You might feel like your teeth don’t fit together correctly or that one tooth is hitting before the others.
- Pressure or Discomfort: You may feel a constant, dull pressure on the filled tooth, especially when you bite down or chew.
- Tooth Sensitivity: The filled tooth might become sensitive to temperature changes (hot or cold) or to sweet foods.
- Pain: The discomfort can evolve into a sharp pain when biting or a persistent throbbing ache.
- Jaw and Muscle Pain: An uneven bite forces your jaw muscles to work harder to chew, which can lead to soreness in the jaw, face, and even headaches or earaches.
- Difficulty Chewing: You might find yourself instinctively avoiding one side of your mouth when you eat.
If you notice any of these symptoms a day or two after your procedure, it’s a strong indicator that your filling may need an adjustment.
Potential Causes of a High Filling
Several factors can contribute to a filling being left too high. It’s rarely a mistake and more often a result of the challenges during the procedure itself.
- Lingering Numbness: Local anesthesia numbs your jaw, lips, and tongue, making it difficult to feel whether your bite is natural. You might bite down differently than you normally would, leading the dentist to believe the filling is perfectly shaped when it isn’t.
- Patient Positioning: Lying back in a dental chair is not a natural biting position. When you sit or stand up, gravity can cause your jaw to settle differently, revealing a high spot that wasn’t apparent during the adjustment.
- Complex Filling Shape: Restoring a tooth with a complex or large cavity requires more intricate shaping. The more complex the restoration, the higher the chance of a small imperfection in the bite.
- Material Properties: The type of filling material used, such as composite resin, can also play a role. The dentist must skillfully sculpt and cure the material to match your tooth’s unique anatomy.
Complications of an Untreated High Filling
While a high filling might seem like a minor annoyance, ignoring it can lead to more significant dental problems. The constant, unnatural pressure on the tooth can cause several complications:
- Tooth Pain and Inflammation: Persistent pressure can irritate the tooth’s nerve, causing ongoing pain and inflammation within the pulp.
- Cracked or Fractured Tooth: In severe cases, the concentrated force from a high filling can cause the tooth or the filling itself to crack or fracture.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: An imbalanced bite forces your jaw muscles and joints to compensate, potentially leading to TMJ disorder. Symptoms include jaw clicking, popping, pain, and limited movement.
- Periodontal Issues: The excessive force can also stress the ligaments and bone supporting the tooth, leading to inflammation and potential damage to these structures.
How to Address a High Filling
If you suspect your filling is too high, the solution is simple and straightforward: contact us here at 5 Mile Smiles in Spokane or your local dentist. Trying to fix a high filling at home by grinding it down with a nail file or other objects is extremely dangerous.
This can damage the filling, your tooth, and the surrounding tissue, leading to more extensive and costly repairs.
A bite adjustment is a quick, painless procedure that usually doesn’t require any anesthesia. Your dentist will use articulating paper again to pinpoint the exact high spot and then carefully polish it down until your bite feels even and comfortable. The entire process often takes just a few minutes.
Expert Dental Fillings at 5 Mile Smiles
At 5 Mile Smiles, Dr. Jason Keefe and our experienced team are dedicated to providing comfortable and precise restorative dental care. We understand that dental procedures can be stressful, which is why we prioritize your comfort from start to finish.
We use modern, tooth-colored composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Dr. Keefe’s 25 years of experience serving the Spokane community ensure that every restoration, from simple fillings to complex crowns, is performed with state-of-the-art technology and a gentle touch.
If you ever feel like a filling isn’t quite right, we encourage you to call us immediately for a quick and easy adjustment. As one of the best dentists in Spokane, we’re here to help!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long should I wait before calling my dentist about a high filling?
A: You can expect some mild sensitivity for a few days after a filling, but if you notice an uneven bite or pain when chewing, it’s best to call your dentist within a day or two. There’s no need to wait for the discomfort to worsen.
Q: Is it normal for a filling to feel weird at first?
A: Yes, it’s common for a new filling to feel slightly different for a day or two as your tongue and teeth get used to it. However, this feeling should not include a high bite, pressure, or pain.
Q: Will a high filling go away on its own?
A: No, a high filling will not wear down on its own in a reasonable amount of time. The filling material is designed to be durable, and waiting for it to adjust naturally will only prolong your discomfort and increase the risk of complications.
Your Comfort is Our Priority
Ensuring your dental health and comfort is our top priority. If you experience any issues with a recent filling or have concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. Our team is here to provide guidance, adjustments, and care to keep your smile healthy and pain-free.
A dental filling should restore your tooth without causing new problems. If your bite feels off, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
At 5 Mile Smiles, your oral health and comfort are our top priorities. See what our patients are saying about their experiences by visiting our Google My Business page. To schedule an appointment or a follow-up adjustment, call our Spokane office today at (509) 326-2621. We are located at 1625 W Francis Ave, Spokane, WA 99205.
Whether you need cosmetic work or simple dental fillings in Spokane, call us today.
