Few things are as unsettling as feeling something hard and gritty in your mouth and realizing a filling has fallen out of your tooth. If this has ever happened to you, you’re probably wondering what to do next.
A filling is a material that dentists use to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay. Fillings protect teeth from further damage and prevent pain and infection.
So, what should you do if a filling falls out? This article will walk you through the steps you should take to protect your tooth and prevent further complications. The most important thing is to take action as soon as possible.
Is a fallen-out filling a dental emergency?
Losing a filling isn’t always a dental emergency, but you shouldn’t ignore it. Think of it this way: A true dental emergency needs immediate attention to stop bleeding, alleviate severe pain, or save a tooth. A lost filling doesn’t usually involve those things, but it needs timely care to avoid making things worse.
If you leave a missing filling untreated, the tooth can become more sensitive, and decay can set in. It might even crack or break. Call your dentist as soon as possible to get it checked out.
What Causes Fillings to Fall Out?
Fillings are meant to be a long-term fix, but they don’t always last forever. Here are some of the reasons a filling might fall out of your tooth.
Tooth Decay
If tooth decay develops around the filling, it can weaken the bond between the filling and your tooth. The bacteria in your mouth erodes the tooth, and that can lead to the filling coming loose.
Fractured or Cracked Tooth
A crack in your tooth can also cause a filling to come loose. There are different types of tooth fractures, and any of them can cause a filling to come dislodged.
Other Factors
Grinding and clenching your teeth (bruxism) puts a lot of pressure on your fillings, and that can make them fail. Fillings also get old. Most fillings last for 5 to 15 years, but some types of fillings can last as long as 30 years.
Poor oral hygiene can also contribute to filling failure. If you aren’t brushing and flossing well, you’re more likely to get decay around the filling.
What to Do When a Filling Falls Out
A lost filling can be a pain, literally! Here are the steps you should take when this happens.
Immediate Actions
- First, remove the filling from your mouth so you don’t accidentally swallow it or damage other teeth.
- Next, rinse your mouth with warm salt water. The salt water will help clean the area, and it can soothe any irritation.
Managing Discomfort
If you’re in pain, here’s what to do:
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where you lost the filling.
- Stay away from foods that are likely to get stuck in the open space, like popcorn or sticky candy.
Protecting the Tooth
You can find temporary dental cement at most drugstores. This cement can protect the exposed area of your tooth until you can get to the dentist.
What to Expect at Your Dental Appointment
When you get to the dentist’s office, here’s what you can expect:
Examination and Diagnosis
First, the dentist will take a look at the tooth. They’ll want to see how extensive the damage is and what might have caused the filling to fall out. They may also take an X-ray to check for decay or other problems.
Filling Replacement
Next, your dentist will talk with you about the best type of filling for you. Fillings can be made of gold, amalgam, ceramic, porcelain, or glass ionomer. After you decide, the dentist will clean your tooth and get it ready for the new filling. Finally, they’ll put in the filling and polish it up.
Addressing Underlying Issues
If tooth decay caused the filling to fall out, the dentist will remove the decay before putting in the new filling. If you grind your teeth (bruxism), the dentist might suggest you wear a mouthguard.
Preventing future filling issues
The best way to keep fillings in place is to take good care of your teeth.
Here’s what you can do:
- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day to remove plaque and food particles.
- See your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Dentists can spot problems early, before they cause fillings to fall out.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or hard candy, which can damage your fillings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can you leave a filling that has fallen out?
You shouldn’t leave a lost filling unaddressed for too long. The longer you wait, the more vulnerable your tooth becomes to decay, infection, and even damage. Ideally, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible, preferably within a few days or a week. In the meantime, practice good oral hygiene and be mindful of what you eat.
Is it a big deal if a filling falls out?
Yes, it is a big deal if a filling falls out. When a filling comes out, it leaves the underlying tooth structure exposed, making it susceptible to bacteria, sensitivity, and further damage. It’s important to address a lost filling promptly to prevent complications and protect the tooth.
How do you fix a filling that fell out at home?
You can’t permanently fix a lost filling at home. While there are temporary dental filling kits available over-the-counter, these are only meant to provide temporary relief until you can see your dentist. These kits can help protect the exposed tooth from sensitivity and debris, but they do not replace the need for a professional dental restoration.
To conclude
If a filling falls out, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Leaving a missing filling untreated can lead to further complications.
Knowing what causes fillings to fall out and what steps you can take afterward can help you protect your dental health. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene habits are essential to preventative dental care.