Tooth Filling Fell Out: Here's How to Handle It

Are you suffering from a tooth filling that fell out? It may have come off when you were cleaning your teeth or having a nice dinner. A tooth filling fell out isn't unusual, no matter how it happened. However, it is the actions that follow that are significant.

As a result, even if your filling fell out but did not cause any discomfort, you will still need to get it replaced. Any delay in filling your exposed tooth might have serious dental implications.

Read on to learn more about filling that fell out of a tooth and what to do in this case.

What to Do If Your Filling Falls Out?

If you find that your filling came out of your tooth, you must act fast. When a filling falls out, the first thing you should do is make sure it comes out with the crown so you don't wind up chewing on it and destroying another tooth before you go to the dentist. Chewing on a filling may cause damage to your teeth and will almost certainly cause pain.

Next, call your dentist’s office and tell them what happened. Follow their instructions until they schedule an emergency appointment so your dental filling can be replaced within time.

What Caused Your Filling to Fall Out?

Your dental filling mostly lasts for a long period that can range from years to even decades. But there are a few occurrences when a dental filling falls out. There are several reasons for this to occur and some of which include:

• There is new decay around the filling.
• You are chewing too hard, which produces great pressure that can loosen the filling over time.
• There is a chemical reaction that loosens the bonds of the tooth filling.
• A broken or cracked tooth might exert pressure on a filling, causing it to fall out.
• Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, can cause a filling to fall out.
• Not taking adequate care of your teeth, not visiting the dentist regularly, or not having your teeth cleaned regularly can all raise the chance of fillings falling out.

Is It Dangerous If Your Filling Fell Out but Doesn’t Hurt?

You don’t need to panic if your filling comes out of your tooth, and you don’t feel any pain. There may be no immediate effect, but you shouldn’t ignore it. This is because your tooth becomes susceptible to deterioration due to your filling falling out. As a result, food particles, germs, and other contaminants can enter the exposed tooth hole. The impacted tooth may eventually deteriorate. Furthermore, tooth decay may infiltrate the dentin layer of your tooth. If the case becomes serious, you may need to remove the tooth via extraction to avoid dental issues. Thus you should visit your dentist immediately in case the tooth filling falls out.

What to Do If You’re in Pain in Case Your Tooth Filling Falls Out?

There are times you feel pain when your tooth filling falls out. Listed below are some of the solutions you can take before visiting your dentist:

• Apply a numbing agent commonly used as an ointment for oral pain.
• If the tooth is causing pain, take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
• Clove oil should be applied to the affected region. Eugenol, an active chemical found in cloves, has anti-inflammatory and numbing qualities that help relieve the pain in case of filling fall out.
• In case of swelling, wrap an ice pack in a cloth and place it on the afflicted swollen region for at least 20 minutes. An ice pack might assist in decreasing the swelling.

How Long Can You Wait If a Filling Falls Out?

If you feel slight pain due to tooth filling falling out, you might not need emergency treatment. You can wait up to three days or even a week before seeking treatment. But it’s always better to visit your dentist as early as possible because leaving the damaged filling untreated exposes the tooth to microorganisms which will lead to further decay.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Filling That Fell Out?

The cost of replacing a tooth filling that fell out varies depending on the type of filling. Listed below are the price for dental filling:

• $90 to $300 per tooth for composite fillings
• $90 to $300 per tooth for glass ionomer fillings
• $50 to $200 per tooth for silver amalgam fillings
• $500 to $4500 per tooth for gold fillings

Get Your Filling Replaced, Today!

Don't be deceived if your filling falls out, but it doesn't hurt. Although it may not be painful, leaving your teeth unprotected might have negative consequences. Although you may be able to wait a few days for an appointment, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is important.

Smile Arizona Dentistry Can Help You with Your Teeth and Gum Problems!

Now that you know what to do in case the tooth filling falls out, it’s time you contact our expert dentists here at Smile Arizona Dentistry. We are committed to assisting you in attaining and maintaining great oral health. To arrange an appointment to treat any dental issues, contact Smile Arizona Dentistry or call (480) 994-5225 immediately.