Can I do anything about rough, high filling at home?

[jen2605]

I went to the dentist 2 days ago for a check up, but knew I would need work done because a bit of a molar had broken off next to a large amalgam filling (that was done about 4 years ago). The dentist could see how anxious I was (I hate feeling like I'm not in control, and I have massive sensory issues so someone to have things in my mouth is really stressful for me) and offered to repair the tooth then and there, rather than have me come back and cause more anxiety worrying about it. He basically drilled some of the old filling and then extended it to replace the broken bit of tooth (again with amalgam). I thought the bite seemed ok at the time, but I was numb and just wanted to get out of there.

Now, I think the filling might be a tiny bit too high, but I'm not sure if it's just that I'd got used to having a space where the tooth had broken off, so now it feels a bit weird? Also, the surface next to my tongue is quite rough and I've got a bit of a sore on my tongue. Will my tongue just get used to it? Is there anything I can do at home to try and smooth that surface, or do I have to go back to the dentist?? I know it's a minor procedure, but the thought still makes me ridiculously anxious, so if there's anything I can do at home I would rather do that. Also, how long do I leave it to decide if the bite is slightly high or if I'm just getting used to it? Any advice would be really appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Anxious Kitty]

I'm not a dentist but I'll try to help.

Only your dentist can tell if the filling is too high or not. I'm afraid to know for sure and to get it fixed, you'd have to see your dentist.

It might be you simply need a little time to get used to it. A new filling can sometimes feel quite foreign at first. Perhaps give yourself a few more days or a week to see if starts to feel more comfortable. I wouldn't wait much longer than that.

In the meantime, dental wax may help to reduce the irritation you're having.

 

[comfortdentist]

General rule
If it feels high then it is high unless I can positively prove that it is not.

Rule two
Patient says it is rough then it is rough and I just have to figure it out.