Foods to Eat and Avoid After a Dental Filling

oatmeal on white bowl beside yellow banana
oatmeal on white bowl beside yellow banana

Foods to Eat and Avoid After a Dental Filling

Just had a dental filling at Prime Dental Care? Whether it’s your first or a routine restoration, what you eat afterward can make a big difference in how quickly you feel normal again—and how well your filling holds up.

Here’s your guide to post-filling eating and care.

Best Foods to Eat After a Filling

Choose soft, easy-to-chew foods—especially within the first few hours:

  • Yogurt, smoothies, or applesauce

  • Mashed potatoes or scrambled eggs

  • Soup (lukewarm, not hot)

  • Cooked vegetables

  • Soft fruits like bananas

These foods are gentle on your newly treated tooth and won’t disrupt the filling while it settles.

🚫 Foods to Avoid Right After a Filling

Depending on the type of filling and anesthesia used, your dentist may recommend avoiding the following for a few hours—or even up to 24 hours:

  • Hard or crunchy foods (nuts, chips, raw veggies)

  • Sticky foods (gum, taffy, caramel)

  • Very hot or cold foods (especially if your teeth are sensitive)

  • Sugary snacks or drinks that could promote decay around the new filling

  • Chewing on the treated side, especially if your mouth is still numb

🦷 How Long Should You Wait to Eat?

  • Tooth-colored composite fillings: You can usually eat once the numbness wears off—typically a few hours after your appointment.

  • Silver amalgam fillings: These may need up to 24 hours to fully set. Stick to soft foods during that time.

If you’re unsure which type you received, call our office—we’re happy to guide you.

💡 Post-Filling Tips for a Smooth Recovery

  • Be gentle when brushing the treated area for the first day or two.

  • Avoid grinding or clenching, which can damage new fillings.

  • Report any sharp pain, high spots, or bite discomfort to your dentist—it may just need a minor adjustment.

👨‍⚕️ Prime Dental Care is Here to Help

At Prime Dental Care in Woodbridge, we want your dental fillings to be long-lasting, functional, and comfortable. Following these aftercare tips can help ensure a smooth recovery and protect your oral health.

📞 Questions or concerns? Give us a call at (571) 513-7117 or book a follow-up online if needed. We’re always here for you.