Losing a dental restoration can be stressful. Even though losing your filling isn’t as severe as knocking out a tooth or other dental emergencies, it’s still super important that you address the issue quickly. However, it can be nerve wracking if you aren’t sure what steps to take to restore the integrity of your tooth. Continue reading to learn why fillings fall out and what you should do if you find yourself in this situation.
Why Do Dental Fillings Fall Out?
Dental fillings are strong and durable. They can last decades before needing to be replaced. However, they aren’t indestructible, so it is possible for them to become dislodged for one reason or another. Here are some of the most common reasons why dental fillings become loose and fall out:
- New decay around the filling
- Chewing too hard
- Biting into foods that are too hard or crunchy
- Clenching and grinding the teeth (bruxism)
- Trauma to the tooth or root
- A chemical reaction that loosens the bond of between the filling and tooth
What Should You Do If Your Filling Falls Out?
Here are the steps you should take if your filling falls out:
Call Your Dentist
The first thing you should do if you lose or break a filling is give your dentist a call. Let them know exactly what happened, if you have any symptoms, and if there is pain present. It’s imported that you schedule an appointment soon or else you can experience additional decay and damage.
Be Careful
As you’re waiting for your appointment to come up, you should be especially careful, as your tooth is left vulnerable to harmful bacteria. You should avoid chewing ono the side of your mouth where your filling was in order to prevent food and bacteria from filling in the space left by the filling.
Manage Discomfort
If you are experiencing sensitivity or discomfort as a result of the lost filling, over-the-counter pain relievers can help to lessen this. Use the one that typically works best for you and be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label.
Keep the Area Clean
Keep up your normal dental hygiene routine, but be especially careful where your filling fell out. Gargle with saltwater to keep the area clean and remove food debris from the area. You can use dental wax to protect the exposed tooth until you are able to have it repaired by your dentist.
Unfortunately, dental fillings don’t last forever. If yours becomes damaged or falls out, follow the steps listed above. Your smile will be good as new in no time!
About the Author
Dr. David M. Fisher, Jr is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than 20 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. He has also completed courses in sedation dentistry. If you’ve lost a filling, he would be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Greensboro, visit his website or call (336) 288-1242.