Have you lost a filling in a tooth and you’re not sure what to do? First, don’t worry too much about it. If you find yourself dealing with a lost tooth filling, you have some options, so take a breath and relax and try not to panic. At Impact Dental Care, we can certainly help!
What Causes a Tooth Filling to Fall Out?
First, it’s important to note that it’s not uncommon to lose a filling or a crown. Several circumstances can lead to a loose dental filling.
- New areas of decay around the filling;
- Chewing on hard or crunchy foods;
- Bruxism, commonly known as grinding your teeth;
- An accident or trauma to your tooth or the root;
- A chemical reaction that weakens the bond between the filling and your tooth.
How to Manage Lost Filling Tooth Pain
While it’s possible to lose a filling and experience no pain, it’s equally likely that you could face some discomfort and sensitivity in the area. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help you manage the pain until you can get to the dentist.
- Gently rinse and gargle with warm salt water to clean the area;
- Use cold compresses for fifteen minutes to alleviate pain;
- Try a topical oral gel or cream to numb the area.
Is Losing a Filling an Emergency?
A lost tooth filling only becomes emergent in rare situations. Unfortunately, it can cause pain because of the exposed tissue and leave you open to more decay. If you experience pain that can’t be managed, notice a foul smell or taste, or have discharge from the affected tooth, you need to contact us immediately!
Though lost tooth fillings aren’t usually emergencies, it’s a good idea to have it repaired as soon as possible. While the tooth remains exposed, it’s more susceptible to damage from bacteria and other factors. Leaving your tooth in a weakened state for too long could lead to more extensive repair or loss of the tooth.
How Do We Fix a Lost Filling?
When you come to see us, we will examine the tooth and possibly take x-rays to determine the best course of treatment. There are three potential outcomes:
- A new filling means the tooth can be repaired;
- A root canal and crown or cap suggest the damage is worse and the cavity exposed your tooth’s nerve;
- Sometimes, the damage is so severe that the only option is tooth extraction.
Contact Us to Resolve Your Dental Problem
If you have a loose dental filling or lost a filling, the team at Impact Dental Care can help. Please click here to book an appointment for a consultation. If you are due for a dental cleaning, please also call us as soon as possible.
