Dental fillings are designed to be durable, but sometimes they loosen or fall out. Whether it happens while eating or seemingly out of nowhere, it can be upsetting. But it’s not time to despair! A lost filling isn’t a serious dental emergency that needs immediate attention, so you have an opportunity to stop and breathe. Continue reading to see what to do next to protect your tooth and prevent further damage.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess
First, check your mouth to see if your filling is completely out or if it’s broken into pieces. If you see any loose fragments, try to take them out if they’re loose to avoid accidentally swallowing them. Once you’ve cleared the area, give your dentist a call. Even if you’re not in pain, it’s better to schedule an appointment sooner rather than later.
Step 2: Keep the Area Clean
You may notice sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods since the exposed tooth is no longer protected. To reduce this discomfort, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove food particles and bacteria. This not only soothes the affected area but can also help prevent infection.
Step 3: Protect the Tooth
Until you can see your dentist, you’ll need to keep the exposed tooth protected from further damage. Here are a few temporary solutions:
- Dental Wax or Sugar-Free Gum: Press a small piece over the hole to keep it covered. If you’ll need to wait a few days, be sure to change the covering out every day.
- Temporary Dental Filling Material: Available at most drugstores, this can provide a short-term fix, but it shouldn’t be relied on for too long.
- Avoid Chewing on the Affected Tooth: While you don’t have to limit your diet to soft foods, it might be a good idea to avoid anything crunchy or sticky. This could worsen the damage.
Step 4: See Your Dentist and Make a Plan
Once it’s time for your dentist appointment, don’t skip it! While at your visit, your dentist will examine your tooth, clean it, if necessary, and replace the filling.
From there, try to make a plan to prevent losing more fillings prematurely. Small habits like brushing twice every day, flossing, and avoiding using your teeth as tools can go a long way in protecting your smile.
While losing a filling isn’t cause for panic, it does leave your tooth vulnerable. So, taking action quickly and seeing your dentist as soon as possible is always the best strategy. By being prepared, you’ll help prevent more dental fillings from dropping out and keep your teeth happy for life.
About the Practice
Dr. Troy Jones and Dr. George Knight are your passionate and professional dental experts at Jones & Knight DDS. Whether you need a filling replaced or immediate relief from tooth pain, they provide exceptional dentistry for any situation. Call (210) 349-4408 to schedule an emergency dental appointment with us or visit our website to see a full menu of services.