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Post-Filling Care: When Can You Eat After a Dental Filling?



Need a dental filling or old fillings replaced?

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Expert Dental Filling Aftercare from Bare Smiles Dental Boutique – Trusted Dentist in Essendon, near Moonee Ponds, Melbourne

Just had a dental filling done and wondering, “When can I eat after a dental filling?” You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions we receive from patients across Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Strathmore, and surrounding Melbourne suburbs. Whether you received a tooth-coloured composite dental filling or a traditional amalgam dental filling, understanding proper post-dental filling care is essential for a smooth dental filling recovery and long-lasting results. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about dental filling aftercare, including eating timelines, what foods to avoid, managing sensitivity, and how to keep your dental filling strong.


When Can I Eat After a Filling?

The answer depends on the type of dental filling you’ve received:

✅ Composite Dental Fillings (Tooth-Coloured)

At Bare Smiles Dental in Essendon, we often use composite dental fillings because they’re aesthetic and set instantly with a curing light.

You can usually eat as soon as the numbness wears off, typically within 1–2 hours. However, we recommend starting with soft foods to avoid biting your cheek or tongue while still numb.

Quick Tip: Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth that has the dental filling for a few hours.


🕒 Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

Amalgam dental fillings take longer to fully set, around 24 hours. We recommend waiting at least 2–3 hours before eating anything solid and ideally holding off on sticky or crunchy foods for a full day.


💎 Glass Ionomer Cement Fillings

Glass ionomer dental fillings are often used in non-load-bearing areas, children’s teeth, or as temporary fillings. They chemically bond to the tooth and release fluoride over time, which helps protect against further decay. GIC dental fillings are generally softer than composite or amalgam, so it's important to avoid hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours to allow the material to fully set. For optimal dental filling care, maintain gentle brushing around the area, avoid aggressive chewing, and attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the integrity of the filling.

Safe Foods After Your Dental Filling (First 24 Hours):

Proper dental filling aftercare starts with making smart food choices. Here’s what to avoid within the first 24 hours: 🍬 Sticky foods (like chewing gum or toffee) 🥜 Hard foods (nuts, raw veggies, crusty bread) 🧊 Extremely hot or cold items (which can cause sensitivity) 🍭 Sugary snacks (especially if your dental filling was due to decay)

If your filling is on a front tooth, try to cut food into small pieces and chew with the opposite side of your mouth.

How Long Does Numbness Last After a Filling?

Most local anaesthetics wear off within 1 to 3 hours. Until the numbness wears off:

  • Avoid hot drinks (to prevent accidental burns)

  • Be cautious when chewing, as you may not feel yourself biting the inside of your cheek or tongue

At Bare Smiles Dental Boutique in Essendon, we apply a topical numbing gel beforehand to reduce the sensation of the injection — but once the procedure is complete, your comfort and awareness during post-dental filling care is key.


Dental Filling Aftercare Tips for a Smooth Recovery

✔️ Chew slowly and avoid biting directly on the dental filling for the first 24 hours ✔️ Maintain good oral hygiene – brush and floss gently around the filled tooth ✔️ Monitor for sensitivity – some mild dental filling sensitivity to hot or cold is normal for a few days ✔️ Avoid grinding or clenching – ask us about a night guard if this is a concern ✔️ Book a follow-up if you notice discomfort, high bite, or sharp edges


When to Call Your Dentist

Sometimes dental filling recovery isn’t as smooth as expected. Contact us if:

  • Your bite feels uneven or too high

  • You experience pain when biting or chewing

  • Sensitivity lingers beyond a few days

  • The filling feels rough or cracked

At Bare Smiles Essendon, we’re always here for our patients in Moonee Ponds, Niddrie, Pascoe Vale, and greater Melbourne, even after the appointment ends.


Why Post Dental Filling Care Matters

Neglecting proper dental filling care can reduce the lifespan of your dental filling and potentially lead to further decay, discomfort, or tooth damage. By following the proper steps, especially around when to eat after your dental filling, you protect your smile and reduce the risk of needing more complex treatment later.


Common FAQ

Q: Can I drink coffee after my dental filling? A: We recommend waiting until numbness wears off and avoiding very hot drinks for the first 24 hours to prevent triggering sensitivity or dislodging the filling.

Q: How long does a dental filling last? A: With proper dental filling care, a composite or amalgam dental filling can last 5–15 years or longer.

Q: Is it normal to feel pain after a dental filling?

A: Mild sensitivity or discomfort is common, but sharp pain or a high bite should be checked by your dentist.

Why Choose Bare Smiles Dental Boutique in Essendon?


  • 🦷 Trusted Local Dentists Near Moonee Ponds & Melbourne

  • ✨ Modern, Boutique-Style Clinic

  • 🪥 Expertise in Preventive & Cosmetic Dentistry

  • ❤️ Gentle, Anxiety-Free Care


Whether you need your first dental filling or want a second opinion, the team at Bare Smiles in Essendon is here to help. We love seeing patients walk away with healthier smiles and peace of mind.


📍 Serving Patients in Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Strathmore, Niddrie, Pascoe Vale, and Greater Melbourne


Book Your Dental Emergency or Filling Appointment today at Bare Smiles Dental Boutique.

For safe, long-lasting, and professional teeth whitening in Essendon and Melbourne, visit Bare Smiles Dental Boutique. We are experts in chair and take-home whitening solutions tailored to your needs.

📍 Location: 144A Buckley Street, Essendon.

📞 Call: 9113 2200

Book your whitening appointment at Bare Smiles Dental Boutique today and enjoy a brighter, whiter smile that lasts! 😁✨

Click here for more info about your bare whitening experience and transform your smile OR call 9113 2200.

Click here for more info about your bare whitening experience and transform your smile OR call 9113 2200.

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