What Should I Do if My Dental Filling Fell Out?

July 15, 2024
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Dental fillings are a popular dental solution used to fix problems like cavities, tooth decay, or even small cracks. Although fillings are common, sometimes they can fall out while you eat or brush your teeth. This isn’t unusual, but it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to get a new filling.

What Caused Your Filling to Fall Out?

While dental fillings can last for years, sometimes they fall out. Here are some reasons why this might happen:

  • New cavity: If new decay forms around the filling, it can push it out.
  • Chewing hard foods: Chewing very hard foods can put a lot of pressure on fillings, loosening them over time.
  • Chemical reaction: Sometimes, a chemical reaction between the filling and the tooth can weaken the bond.
  • Cracked tooth: A cracked or broken tooth can put pressure on a filling, causing it to come loose.
  • Teeth grinding: Grinding your teeth (bruxism) can wear down filings and make them fall out.
  • Poor dental hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly, or skipping dentist visits, can increase your risk of losing a filling.

What Should You Do if a Filling Falls Out?

If your tooth filling falls out, it’s natural to feel concerned. Stay calm and follow these three steps until you can see a dentist:

  1. Look for the lost piece: If you find it, remove it from to avoid chewing on it, which could damage your teeth.
  2. Manage pain: The exposed tooth may be sensitive. You can ease pain by taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, using topical agents like Anbesol, applying clove oil, or rinsing with warm salt water.
  3. Keep your teeth clean: A missing filling leaves a space for food and bacteria. Brush and floss around the affected area twice daily, and use antibacterial mouthwash to prevent decay until you can see your dentist.

How Long Can You Wait if a Filling Falls Out?

Your tooth filling might come out. It might cause a little bit of pain, but you likely won’t need to see the dentist immediately.

However, the sooner you get it fixed, the better. An open tooth is like an open door for tiny germs that can cause cavities. If you wait too long, the hole in your tooth might get bigger and cause more pain. Call your dentist to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

In a Nutshell

A loose filling might not cause big problems right away, but it’s important to see a dentist to get it fixed. If you leave it, the hole in your tooth could grow bigger and cause pain later. 

If you’re facing this issue and need advice, reach out to the dental professionals at Saifee Family Dentistry of Spring. Dial
(281) 350-5600 to get in touch with us today!

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