What should I do if my dental filling falls out?

Fillings are a vital aspect of dental reparation. They fill a hole in a tooth left behind by chips or decay that a dentist removed. By filling this hole, the tooth gains strength and stability, preventing further decay.

Dental fillings are a familiar concept for anyone who has had a cavity. Something that patients don’t often consider, however, is what to do if a dental filling falls out. Fillings don’t last forever, after all.

When a filling falls out, exposing a tooth to pain, it can cause further damage and bacteria growth. The first step when a filling falls out is to call your dentist and schedule the soonest appointment available. After that, there are preventative actions to take to lessen pain and harm.

Lessening Pain

To lessen the pain you feel after losing a filling, try the following tips:

• Avoid chewing food in that area of the mouth

• Brush very gently when cleaning that tooth

• Consider light pain medications

Lessening Harm

To lessen the damage caused by losing a filling, do the following:

• Gargle with salt water to keep the area clean

• Schedule with your dentist immediately

• Consider using dental wax to fill the temporary hole and protect it.

Overall, losing a filling is an expected occurrence. Fillings are not made to last forever - just as long as the material safely can. If you have lost a dental filling - no need to stress. Take quick action to repair the filling by reaching out to a dentist at Perry Dental today.