Can I Eat Pizza After a Filling?

This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer!

Dental fillings are a common procedure that helps to restore the form and function of decayed or damaged teeth. After getting a filling, patients often wonder about the dos and don’ts of eating, especially when it comes to their favorite foods like pizza. This article explores the considerations of eating pizza after getting a dental filling and provides insights into how to best care for your new filling during the critical healing period.

How Dental Fillings Work?

Dental fillings are materials used to fill cavities in the teeth. There are different types of fillings, including amalgam, composite, gold, and porcelain. The choice of filling material and the size and location of the filling can affect how soon you can return to your normal eating habits.

Immediate Post-Procedure Precautions

Immediately after receiving a dental filling, your mouth may be numb from local anesthesia. It is highly advisable to avoid eating until the numbness wears off to prevent accidental biting of your cheek or tongue.

Pizza as a Post-Filling Meal

When considering if you can eat pizza after receiving a dental filling, several factors come into play:

1. Temperature: Pizzas are generally served hot, and the temperature can be an issue immediately after a dental procedure. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, should be avoided as they may cause discomfort or sensitivity.
2. Texture: Pizza crust can be crunchy, and if you’ve had a filling on the side or cusp of a tooth, you might want to be cautious about biting into something hard that could compromise the filling.
3. Ingredients: Pizza is often laden with sugars and carbohydrates which are not ideal for your teeth, especially immediately after having dental work. This is because bacteria in your mouth can feed on these sugars and create acids that can cause tooth decay.

Guidelines for Eating Pizza After a Filling

• Wait for the Anesthesia to Wear Off: It is crucial that you wait for the numbness to wear off before you start eating to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
• Allow Pizza to Cool Down: If you decide to eat pizza, let it cool down a bit to avoid hurting your teeth if they are sensitive to temperature after the filling.
• Chew Carefully: Try to chew on the side opposite of where the filling was placed, and avoid using the filled tooth to bite into the pizza.
• Opt for a Softer Crust: If possible, opt for a softer crust as opposed to a hard, crispy one, as it will be gentler on your teeth.
• Rinse Your Mouth: After eating, rinse your mouth with water to help wash away any food particles and sugars.
• Monitor for Sensitivity or Pain: Pay attention to any prolonged sensitivity or pain after eating. If you experience discomfort, it is a good idea to contact your dentist.

Bottom Line

While it’s not impossible to eat pizza after receiving a dental filling, caution is key. It’s important to consider the temperature, texture, and ingredients of the pizza and how they could affect your new filling. By waiting for the anesthesia to wear off, allowing the pizza to cool, chewing carefully, opting for a softer crust, and rinsing your mouth afterward, you can enjoy your pizza without compromising the integrity of your new dental filling. However, always listen to your body and if in doubt, consult your dentist for personalized advice.

This Q&A series article is complete and was published on August 5, 2023, and last updated on August 5, 2023.