It can take you by surprise, losing your dental filling; all of a sudden, your tooth seems to have a gap, and you feel discomfort when having certain foods or liquids.
It’s a common dental emergency; however, that doesn’t make it any less stressful.
There is assistance available, so there’s no need to panic if you find yourself in this situation.
An emergency dentist in Vaughan can quickly assess and fix the tooth, whether the filling came out while biting into something hard or slowly became dislodged from the tooth over time.
Why Do Fillings Fall Out?
Filling can fall out because
- Decay Below Filling: If decay occurs beneath the filling, then that weakening bond may cause it to fall out.
- Biting on Hard Foods: Things like ice chewing, hard candy, or using teeth as tools loosen the fillings.
- Wear and Tear Over Time: Fillings are consistently being pressured from daily chewing activities, and over time, they may crack or loosen.
- Teeth Grinding: Grinders have more wear-and-tear of fillings.
Steps to Take If You Lose a Filling
Removing a filling makes a tooth less immune to infection and injury. Therefore, quick action may have an impact. Comply with the four guidelines given below:
- Gently Rinse Your Mouth: Wash the area with warm salt water. This aids in removing loose food particles and minimizes bacterial growth.
- Store the Filling (If Found): Even though it may not be reused, your dentist would like to see it.
- Dental Wax or Temporary Material to the Rescue: Until professional help is available, a temporary fix can protect the tooth from air, food, and bacteria.
- Avoid chewing on that side: Stick to soft foods and steer clear of chewing around the cavity until it can be restored.
Can You Get Temporary Fillings?
Yes, indeed, a good number of dental offices do offer temporary fillings. These are to be used for a short time and to protect the served tooth until the placement of a permanent filling or restoration.
Temporary fillings can be useful for the following:
- You’re having pain or sensitivity
- Your dentist is not available immediately
- You need time before securing a full restoration
Temporary materials are available in stores and pharmacies, but these should never be considered replacements for professional care. These kinds of kits can relieve discomfort for a few days but are not substitutes for professional application.
What Should You Do If a Filling Falls Out?
It is important to take immediate steps if your filling falls out. Here’s a straightforward method:
- Don’t Delay Treatment: Leaving the tooth unprotected increases the risk of infection or further damage.
- Keep the Area Clean: Rinse after every meal and brush gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Call an emergency dentist promptly: They will examine the tooth and recommend whether a new filling, crown, or another procedure is best.
When Should Emergency Medical Attention be Sought?
Every time a lost filling does not mean acute pain; however, it requires an appointment with a professional dentist. Call the emergency dentist when:
- The tooth is feeling sharp or jagged
- Sensitivity or pain is being experienced
- There is swelling, bad breath, or pus that could indicate infection
- Food keeps getting stuck in the cavity.
Missing fillings ignored will lead to more serious procedures, such as root canal treatment or extraction of the tooth. Timely intervention is critical.
Common Materials Used for Replacing Fillings
There are several options available today when it comes to refilling a tooth:
| Filling Material | Pros | Cons |
| Composite Resin | Tooth-colored, blends well | Less durable than metal |
| Amalgam (Silver) | Very durable and cost-effective | Visible and contains mercury |
| Gold | Long-lasting and strong | Expensive and not tooth-colored |
| Ceramic (Porcelain) | Aesthetic and stain-resistant | More costly than other materials |
| Temporary Fillings | Quick fix for emergencies | Not suitable for long-term use |
Wrapping Up!
Having lost a filling is a regrettable situation. More significantly, what comes next may frequently be a way to avoid issues. Before scheduling an appointment with a licensed dentist, take care of that tooth and avoid damaging it,
For anyone experiencing this problem, timely action is necessary, especially with pain or sensitivity present.
Your Smile Deserves Immediate Attention
For urgent care, our experienced dentist in Woodbridge at Vellore Woods Dentistry provide prompt assistance. Our team can manage emergencies and restore your smile with care and precision.