If you’ve had a filling placed in the past, you’ve likely been getting good use out of it over the years. But what happens if it falls out? While it’s not a common occurrence, it can happen as the restoration reaches the end of its lifespan or from eating certain foods. Here’s what to do if this happens to you, and how your dentist can help with this dental emergency.
Step #1: Locate the Filling & Rinse Your Mouth
As soon as you realize your filling has come out, take it out of your mouth and avoid swallowing any loose pieces. Try to gently clean it off and store it in a clean container. From there, rinse with water to clear out your grin. You can try brushing with fluoride toothpaste, but you don’t need to if it causes pain.
Step #2: Take a Closer Look
Examine the affected tooth for any debris or signs of new damage. If you’re experiencing discomfort, a warm saltwater rinse can help ease inflammation. Over-the-counter pain medication can also provide some relief in the meantime.
Step #3: Protect the Exposed Tooth
Even though a lost filling counts as a dental emergency, your tooth typically isn’t in immediate danger. Still, it’s a good idea to protect the exposed area. Dental wax or sugarless gum can be used to cover it, sealing the gap left behind and smoothing over any sharp edges in the process.
Step #4: Schedule a Visit with Your Dentist
Reach out to your dentist as soon as possible and explain what happened. They’ll work to get you in quickly, often the same day or in the near future. During your visit, they’ll check for any signs of decay or infection, and then address them if necessary before putting in a new filling. Replacing the restoration is usually the best route, so you can feel confident your results will hold up for years to come.
About the Practice
Wound up in a dental emergency? Our team at My Riverdale Dentist is dedicated to helping patients in Riverdale Park protect their smiles in unfortunate situations. Led by Dr. Ashli Cumberbatch and Dr. Kathleen Lu, we are proud to see patients, oftentimes the same day, when they need urgent oral care. By getting to the bottom of the issue, we can then get you fitted with a reliable solution, like a metal-free restoration. If your filling fell out, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling our office at 301-927-8478.