If your tooth filling fell out, you might be panicking about what to do. It can be quite terrifying to see the dental work just fall out without any explanation. But rather than letting hysteria take over you, you can ensure no further damage occurs as a result of this dental emergency.
Since a fallen tooth filling is an urgent matter, you will need emergency dental services to make sure your tooth remains safe, and no complications take place. In the meantime, you can follow the instructions mentioned in this blog after consulting your dentist.
Why Tooth Filling Fell Out
Oral care is always important, filling or not filling. However, it is even more important after you receive a dental filling or undergo another dental procedure. Brushing and flossing are the pillars of oral hygiene that are necessary to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
Nonetheless, even with proper brushing and flossing, the filling can fall out. Many times, an aggressive brushing technique can result in a fallen tooth filling. As you brush your teeth with force daily, the filling dislodges slowly. And then, one day, the filling falls out.
That’s not all — your tooth filling can also come loose due to hard biting or bruxism. Due to the pressure, the filling bond loosens, and it comes out.
Another reason your tooth filling fell out could be plaque buildup. Improper brushing and flossing routine allows bacteria and plaque to thrive. Gradually, plaque can harden into tartar, which is something only a dentist should address. Therefore, the collection of plaque or tartar could be the reason behind your loose filling.
Continuous wear and tear can also lead to a fallen dental filling. Hence, in some cases, old filling or wear and tear could cause the filling to fall off of the tooth.
What to Do for Loose Filling
If your tooth filling falls out, but you experience no pain, consider yourself lucky. In some instances, exposed nerves can result in tooth pain that will require immediate dental attention.
In case your dentist is not available for prompt treatment, ask them what you can do till the appointment. Sometimes, the dentist refers the patient to another dentist, while other times, they provide instructions on what to do. Your dentist might tell you to do the following if your filling falls out:
- OTC Medications: You might have to take OTC NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, which helph3>with symptoms such as pain and inflammation. The dentist might suggest an over-the-counter medication if your filling fell out and it hurts.
- Clove Oil: Eugenol, a natural anesthetic, is present in cloves. This means you cah3>use clove oil while you wait for your dental appointment to eliminate tooth sensitivity and pain.
- Cold Compress: You can apply a cold compress to the affected area to minimizh3>swelling. To do so, take an ice pack and wrap it in a clean cloth or any other alternative. Next, compress the area in a gentle manner to soothe the pain and swelling.
- Numbing Gel: A numbing gel is also effective in reducing pain. Simply apply thh3>recommended amount and wait for it to do its magic. In addition, you can insult your dentist for recommendations.
Visit a Dentist!
In short, many factors can contribute to your tooth filling coming loose. Make sure to contact your dentist if your filling falls off and you do not know what to do.
At Pearland Family Dentistry, we are equipped with the necessary tools to deal with any dental issue. We provide multiple services to boost your dental health and keep your teeth healthy. Talk to our team at (832) 649-7344. You can also come to meet us at 11508 Pearland Pkwy Suite 600, Houston, TX 77089.