Post-Filling Diet: What to Eat and Avoid for Faster Healing

After a dental filling, the tooth may be sensitive to temperature, pressure, and sweet/acidic foods. Follow these guidelines for 24–48 hours:

Recommended Foods

• Soft, lukewarm/cool: yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, pudding, scrambled eggs, oatmeal
• Easy-to-chew proteins: cottage cheese, tofu, flaky fish
• Grains: pasta, rice, soft bread (no crust)
• Smoothies (no straw—suction can dislodge the filling)

Foods & Habits to Avoid

• Hard, crunchy, or sticky: nuts, chips, caramel, gum, tough meats
• Very hot or ice-cold items
• Sugary/acidic foods and drinks (soda, citrus, candy)
• Chewing directly on the filled tooth
• Flossing the filled tooth for the first 24 hours (gentle brushing is fine)
• Alcohol and tobacco (delay healing)

Tips

• Chew on the opposite side.
• Rinse gently with warm salt water after meals.
• If sensitivity persists beyond two weeks or bite feels high, contact your dentist.