What to Expect If You Have Jaw Pain After a Filling

Why Might You Feel Jaw Pain After a Filling?

It’s not uncommon to experience jaw discomfort following a dental filling. While it might be concerning, these sensations are usually temporary and easily explained by the nature of the procedure.

Prolonged mouth opening during the procedure 

Holding your mouth open for a long time can place strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or the surrounding jaw muscles. This is especially true during longer appointments or for patients with smaller mouths, where extra effort is needed to keep the jaw open.

Mild inflammation or injection site soreness 

The use of local anesthesia is key to a pain-free experience, but it may cause mild irritation to nearby tissues. It’s normal for some sensitivity or soreness to stick around for 24–48 hours after your visit.

Tension or clenching during the appointment 

Feeling anxious? Staying still during the procedure can lead to muscle fatigue, and some patients unconsciously clench their teeth or tighten their jaw. This can result in post-treatment muscle tightness or tenderness.

If these symptoms sound familiar, there’s good news—simple remedies like a warm compress, gentle jaw stretches, or over-the-counter pain relievers can often provide relief.

What Type of Jaw Pain Is Considered Normal?

Jaw pain can sometimes feel alarming, but not all discomfort is cause for concern. It’s normal to experience mild soreness or stiffness, especially if you’ve been clenching your teeth, chewing on hard foods, or have recently undergone dental treatment. Recognizing the boundary between normal and abnormal jaw pain is key to understanding when to seek help.

Expected Symptoms in the First 1–2 Days

• Mild soreness near the jaw joint or along the cheek 
• Discomfort when chewing tougher foods like crusty bread or nuts 
• Slight stiffness when opening your mouth wide, such as during a yawn 

These symptoms often result from minor strain or inflammation and should settle on their own with some care.

Pain That Should Start to Fade Quickly

If the pain gets better each day, it’s a sign your jaw is healing properly. It could just be temporary muscle recovery or mild irritation. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease discomfort in the meantime. Warm compresses or gentle jaw stretching exercises may also help soothe tension.

When Is Jaw Pain After a Filling a Concern?

Sometimes, mild discomfort following a filling is normal as your mouth adjusts. But persistent or worsening pain shouldn’t be ignored. Your oral health and comfort matter, and we’re here to help. Below, we’ve outlined when to reach out for professional care—because peace of mind starts with answers.

Red Flags That Warrant a Call to the Dentist

• Pain that worsens after 2–3 days 
• Difficulty opening the mouth fully or clicking/popping sounds in the jaw 
• Sharp, shooting pain when biting down 
• Swelling near the jaw, neck, or ear 
• Fever or facial redness (a sign of possible infection) 
• Numbness or tingling that doesn’t fade after anesthesia wears off 

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, don’t wait. Early intervention can prevent larger issues and get you feeling yourself again.

Bite Alignment Issues

A common cause of post-filling discomfort is a high filling, where the treated tooth sits higher than it should. This slight height imbalance can:

• Place extra strain on certain jaw muscles, leading to pain or tightness 
• Create discomfort when chewing or resting your jaw 

The good news? A high filling can often be fixed quickly with a simple bite adjustment. Relief is just a visit away, and our team is committed to making your experience smooth and reassuring.

How to Relieve Jaw Pain at Home

Immediate Relief Tips

Dealing with jaw pain can be frustrating, but there are simple steps you can take to find relief right at home. Start by applying a cold compress to the affected area for 15–20 minutes. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Stick to soft foods—mashed potatoes, yogurt, or soup—so you’re not overworking your jaw with excessive chewing. 

If discomfort persists, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can provide respite when taken as directed. Gentle jaw stretches or massages, approved by your healthcare provider, can also ease tension and improve mobility.

Oral Hygiene During Recovery

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, even when you’re experiencing jaw pain. Be sure to brush gently, especially if there’s a treated area or lingering sensitivity. Warm salt water rinses are a natural way to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Until your jaw feels better, steer clear of sticky or chewy foods—they only prolong the discomfort. With these practices, you’re giving your jaw the care it needs to recover faster, while preventing further irritation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it normal to have jaw pain after a dental filling?
   Yes, mild jaw soreness is common—especially if your mouth was open for an extended period during the procedure. It usually fades within a day or two.
2. How long should the jaw pain last?
   Most jaw pain resolves within 24 to 72 hours. If it worsens after a few days or doesn’t improve, it’s best to contact your dentist.
3. Why does my jaw hurt when I bite down after a filling?
   It could be a “high” filling—meaning the bite is slightly off, causing uneven pressure. This is easily corrected with a quick adjustment at your dental office.
4. Can jaw pain after a filling lead to TMJ issues?
   Not typically, but if left untreated—especially in cases of bite imbalance—it may contribute to jaw strain or TMJ symptoms.
5. What helps relieve jaw pain at home?
   Try a cold compress, soft foods, gentle jaw stretches, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen. Avoid chewing on the affected side for a day or two.
6. Should I be worried if I have swelling or a fever after a filling?
   Yes, those can be signs of infection or a reaction that needs immediate attention. Call your dentist if you experience swelling, warmth, or flu-like symptoms.
7. When should I call my dentist about jaw pain?
   If the pain is sharp, doesn’t improve after 2–3 days, or comes with trouble opening your mouth or chewing, reach out to us at Oxboro Family Dental—we’re happy to help.

Listen to Your Jaw—And Your Dentist

Your body has ways of telling you when something’s off—your jaw included. Noticing discomfort or sensitivity after a filling? Don’t brush it off. Sometimes, it’s a normal part of healing; other times, it might signal an issue that needs attention. Listening to your body helps us help you!

When in Doubt, Reach Out

A little soreness is no big deal, but if the pain lingers or worsens, it’s time to take action. Your comfort is our priority. We want you to feel at ease and confident about your care. Our team is always ready to step in, providing thoughtful solutions so you can get back to smiling, pain-free.

Book a Follow-Up If Needed

Still feeling unsure? Don’t hesitate—schedule an appointment with Oxboro Family Dental. Whether it’s checking the surface of your filling or adjusting your bite, we’ll handle it with care and precision. Give us a call, and we’ll make things right in no time. Healthy, happy smiles start here!