Oh No, My Filling Just Fell Out!

Oh no, my filling just fell out and I don’t know what to do! First step, don’t panic.

Tooth fillings come loose and fall out for different reasons. Sometimes flossing will dislodge a filling as will biting down on something hard. Plaque can also be a contributing factor. When plaque builds up around the margins of the filling it can force or push out the filling. Other times a second cavity or decay under the filling can be the culprit.

Next step, contact your dentist. A broken or missing filling should be replaced as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the greater the chance for the cavity to enlarge or for an infection to begin.

Third step,

• Keep the area clean and avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the affected side of your mouth. You don’t want to further damage the tooth.
• If the tooth is sensitive, a little clove oil applied with a cotton swab will dull the pain. It can be found at pharmacies or in the spice section of many grocery stores.
• Watch for fluids leaking out of the tooth or bad odors. This could be a sign of infection. If you do notice any of these symptoms contact your dentist immediately.
• Brush your teeth after every meal to keep the area free of food particles.
• Swish with salt water a few times a day. This will also help keep the tooth clean.

In many cases, the process of fixing the tooth is simple – the tooth is cleaned out and the filling replaced. In other instances, a dental procedure may be needed. If the filling was metal it is recommended to replace it with composite. In any case, the tooth will be restored and healthy when your visit is complete.

Maintaining your dental health is critical to overall health. Good oral health allows a person to speak, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow and smile. Comprehensive dental care considers every aspect of your life, medical condition, and your dental condition. The office of Dr. Abeyta understands this concept and will work with you to create a dynamic action plan for your best oral and overall health. Call today to schedule your appointment at (505) 293-7611 and if you’re calling about a lost filling, don’t panic, they’ve got you covered.