Imagine you were munching away on one of your favorite foods or snacks. You were enjoying them greatly until you noticed something a bit harder than the food in your mouth. As you take it out, you realize that it’s your dental filling! It’s easy to be a bit concerned about this situation, but it’s not necessarily an urgent emergency. Here’s what to do if a filling falls out.
Step 1: Pick Up Your Filling
When you notice your restoration has come out of place or feel a hole in your tooth, then try to gather all the pieces of it. Try your best not to swallow it and put it in a clean, airtight container. Your dentist may be able to reuse it, but they may also just want to see the state of the filling itself.
If you still need to eat, then don’t chew on that side where the affected tooth is. Doing so or feeling it with your tongue can cause irritation. Leave it be and try not to let any debris build up in there.
Step 2: Rinse Out Your Mouth and Assess
As you finish eating, you should clean out your mouth. You’ll want to rinse with warm salt water to wash any food or bacteria that might be in it. This can also soothe some discomfort you feel. In some cases, there may be some things still inside, so gently brush with a fluoride toothpaste. If you notice any pain when you do this, then try swishing water again and don’t continue to scrub at the affected tooth.
Step 3: Handle Any Discomfort You Feel
You may feel some minor discomfort or sensitivity, so consider taking pain relievers to manage it. You can also use dental wax to cover the hole that has been left behind. This can help protect against a sharp edge or prevent other things from finding their way into it. Just remember this is a temporary solution, not a long-term one.
Step 4: Call Your Dentist
While a lost filling doesn’t put your smile in immediate harm, your dentist will still want to see you right away. By not getting it fixed up, you risk developing an infection or decay. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible, and you can avoid any complications that can happen. In some cases, you may even go in the same day and get your tooth filled in no time! That way, you get back to a restored smile you love.
About the Author
Dr. J.D. Robison is proud to help the Canton community get problem-free grins. By providing preventive care, he can help you avoid a wide range of oral health issues. However, if you end up experiencing a dental emergency, Dr. Robinson is here with same-day urgent appointments so you can get the relief you need. If you had a filling come out, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling (734) 453-6320.