Hello, I recently visited the dentist to have an upper first molar filled. He drilled the tooth, placed medication and then filled it. The problem is that the tooth now hurts a little and reacts to hot drinks (it never hurt before), and sometimes it hurts when I eat, but the pain lasts only a second or two. Is this normal or should I see the dentist as soon as possible? Thank you.

Dear Sir/Madam!

If it is a reaction to a change in temperature (hot, cold) or to changes in osmotic pressure (sour, sweet, salty), the situation is not so bad and is expected. During preparation and caries removal the tooth was irritated, which means a certain degree of inflammation after the procedure. You perceive this condition as hypersensitivity. If the tooth becomes painful on biting or percussion, or is sensitive only to heat (a stage of purulent inflammation of the dental pulp), this is a sign that you should visit the dentist.

Have a nice day!