If you’ve recently had a cavity filling, you may be wondering, “how long after a cavity filling can you eat?” or “can you eat after filling teeth?”. The good news is that most patients can eat fairly soon after their appointment, but it depends on several factors, including the type of filling material and whether anaesthetic was used.
This guide will explain how long you should wait before eating, which foods are safe, and what to avoid to ensure your filling lasts.
If you need a dental filling in Oldbury, our expert team at Hakimi Dental Clinic provides safe, high-quality composite fillings to restore your teeth.
How long after a cavity filling can you eat?
The time you should wait before eating depends on:
The type of filling – Most modern fillings in the UK are made of composite resin, which hardens instantly under a curing light.
Whether you had local anaesthetic – If your dentist numbed the area, you may need to wait until sensation returns to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
If you had a composite (white) filling
- Composite fillings harden immediately, meaning you can technically eat straight away.
- However, it’s best to wait at least 1-2 hours to ensure the filling has fully settled.
- Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods for the first 24 hours to prevent unnecessary stress on the tooth.
If you had local anaesthetic
- If your mouth is numb, wait until sensation returns before eating to avoid accidental injury.
- This usually takes 1-3 hours.
- Start with soft foods to prevent biting your cheek, lips, or tongue.
For more information on fillings in Oldbury, visit Hakimi Dental Clinic.
What foods can you eat after a cavity filling?
Choosing the right foods after a filling is important for comfort and filling longevity.
Best foods to eat after a filling:
- Soft fruits (bananas, ripe peaches)
- Cooked vegetables (mashed potatoes, steamed carrots)
- Yoghurt
- Oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs
- Soup (lukewarm, not hot)
These foods are gentle on your teeth and won’t put pressure on the new filling.
Foods to avoid after a filling:
- Hard foods (nuts, raw carrots, ice cubes) – These can put excessive pressure on the filling.
- Sticky sweets (chewing gum, toffee) – These can pull at the filling and cause damage.
- Hot foods and drinks (tea, coffee, hot soup) – The newly restored tooth may be sensitive to temperature changes.
- Sugary foods – Bacteria thrive on sugar, increasing the risk of further decay.
Avoiding these foods for the first 24 hours will help ensure your filling remains secure and comfortable.
How to care for your filling after eating
Even though your filling is strong, taking care of it properly will extend its lifespan.
- Brush gently but avoid excessive pressure around the new filling.
- Floss daily to keep the area clean and prevent new cavities.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to protect the enamel around the filling.
- Avoid biting down on hard objects (pens, fingernails, ice).
If you experience persistent discomfort, sensitivity, or pain, contact our team at Hakimi Dental Clinic for advice.
When to contact your dentist
While most fillings heal smoothly, contact your dentist if you experience:
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve
- Sensitivity lasting longer than two weeks
- A rough or uneven bite
- A loose or cracked filling
For expert care and high-quality fillings in Oldbury, visit Hakimi Dental Clinic today.
Final thoughts
If you’ve ever wondered “how long after a cavity filling can you eat?”, the answer depends on the type of filling and whether you had anaesthetic. While composite fillings allow you to eat almost immediately, it’s best to wait 1-2 hours and choose soft foods to ensure a comfortable recovery.
If you need a dental filling in Oldbury, our skilled team at Hakimi Dental Clinic is here to help. Book an appointment today!
FAQs
You can eat soft foods immediately after a composite filling. However, for harder foods, wait at least 24 hours to allow the filling to settle properly.
It’s best to wait until the numbness wears off (usually 1-3 hours) to avoid accidentally biting your cheek, lips, or tongue.
Some sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is normal for a few days after a filling. If the sensitivity lasts longer than two weeks, contact your dentist.
It’s best to avoid hot drinks for the first 24 hours, especially if your tooth is sensitive. After that, you can enjoy your usual drinks.
With proper care, composite fillings can last 7-10 years. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene will help extend their lifespan.
If you need a new filling or advice about an existing one, book an appointment at Hakimi Dental Clinic.