What to Do If You Lose a Dental Filling (Before Seeing the Dentist)
Lost a dental filling? Don't panic. Learn the immediate steps you should take to protect your tooth, manage pain, and prevent further damage before seeing your dentist.
Losing a dental filling might feel like a big deal, especially if it catches you off guard during a meal or while brushing your teeth. But do not panic. Fillings can fall out for all sorts of reasons, and there are steps you can take right away to protect your tooth and avoid further damage.
If your filling decides to make a break for it, you might be wondering what your next steps should be. For our patients in Cincinnati and Mason, Ohio, the team at Kings Dental is always here to help. Here is exactly what to do if you have a lost dental filling before you can make it into the office.
Why Did My Dental Filling Fall Out?
Dental fillings are highly durable, but they do not always last forever. Over time, the materials can wear down from the daily stress of chewing and grinding.
Sometimes, new decay forms underneath the existing filling. This alters the shape of the tooth and loosens the bond holding the filling in place. Chewing on extremely hard or sticky foods, like ice, hard candies, or caramel, can also dislodge a restoration.
Immediate Steps: Handling a Lost Dental Filling
When a filling falls out, the exposed tooth tissue is often sensitive to temperature and pressure. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), acting quickly is crucial for protecting the vulnerable tooth.
- Call Your Dentist Right Away: A lost filling will not fix itself. Contact us immediately to arrange emergency dental care so we can protect your tooth from infection.
- Keep the Area Clean: Gently brush around the affected tooth. You can also rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help remove food debris and keep the area free of bacteria.
- Avoid Chewing on That Side: To prevent cracking the weakened tooth or pushing food into the cavity, chew your food on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Manage Your Pain: If the tooth is aching, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. You can also read our guide to find relief for your toothache while you wait for your appointment.
- Consider a Temporary Filler: If you cannot get to the dentist immediately, you can find temporary dental cement at most pharmacies. This can temporarily seal the tooth and reduce sensitivity, but it is not a permanent fix.
Do not try to glue the old filling back into your tooth. Household glues are toxic and can cause severe damage to your tooth and soft tissues.
Why You Need Professional Care Promptly
Even if your lost dental filling does not hurt at first, the exposed areas of the tooth are much more sensitive and vulnerable to decay. Receiving care quickly can prevent bigger and more expensive problems down the line, such as deep infections or the need for a root canal.
When you visit Kings Dental, we will assess the tooth and discuss your restorative dentistry options. Depending on the size of the cavity and the condition of the tooth, we might simply replace your lost filling with a tooth-colored composite or recommend a dental crown for added strength.
Get Your Smile Back on Track
Dealing with a lost restoration can be stressful, but fast action makes all the difference. Keep the area clean, avoid chewing on the exposed tooth, and reach out to your dental team right away.
If you are dealing with a dental emergency in the Cincinnati or Mason area, we are ready to help restore your smile comfortably and quickly. Schedule a visit at Kings Dental.