The dental fillings process refers to one of the common ways through which tooth decay and tooth damage are handled. Through it, one takes out the parts of the decayed part and refills with different materials. Since fillings have been used with the hope of maintaining them for so many years, they end up falling at other times because of other related issues.
This can be a cause of concern for many people, as it can lead to discomfort and potential damage to the tooth. In this article, we will discuss what to do and not do if your cavity filling fell out, including the importance of seeking professional help from a dentist in Grande Prairie for tooth replacement.
What Causes a Tooth Filling to Fall Out?
There are several possible reasons why the filling of the tooth may eventually fall out. The most usual cause is abrasion over the years. The fillings don’t last lifetime, and may weaken or shatter with normal chewing and grinding. This has been especially characteristic of amalgam fillings: they are formed of metal, which corrodes if exposed to acid.
Another common cause of a filling falling out is tooth decay. If the tooth around the filling becomes decayed, it can cause the filling to become loose and eventually fall out. This is why it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Occasionally, impact or physical harm done to the tooth may lead to the falling out of the filling that was done previously. This can occur due to a condition such as when you chew on a piece of very hard food or when you receive a hit on the face. Moreover, if the filling was not well filled or there was a problem with the bonding, the filling may fail and be lost much earlier.
What to Do if Your Tooth Filling Falls Out
If your tooth filling fell out, it is important to take action immediately. Leaving the tooth unfilled can lead to further damage and potential infection. Here are some steps you should take if your filling falls out:
- Clear the Area: If you feel something in your mouth, it might be part of the filling. Use dental floss or a toothpick to gently clean around the tooth.
- Rinse Your Mouth: Swish warm salt water to clean the area and prevent infection.
- Use Temporary Filling Material: You can buy temporary filling material at a drugstore to protect the tooth until you see your dentist.
- Take Pain Relievers: If your tooth hurts, take over-the-counter pain medicine like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Contact your dentist: If you are wondering what to do if your tooth filling falls out, the important step is to contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. They will be able to assess the situation and provide a permanent solution for your tooth.
What NOT to Do if Your Tooth Filling Falls Out
While there are steps you should take if your tooth filling falls out, there are also things you should avoid doing. These include:
- Don’t Ignore It: Even if it doesn’t hurt, get it fixed quickly. Leaving it untreated can cause more damage or an infection.
- Don’t Try to Fix It Yourself: Avoid DIY fixes—they can make things worse. Let your dentist handle it.
- Don’t Eat Hard or Sticky Foods: These can damage your tooth even more. Stick to soft foods until you see your dentist.
- Don’t Delay Seeing Your Dentist: Temporary fixes won’t last. Book a dentist appointment right away to prevent further problems.
Tooth Replacement in Grande Prairie
If your small piece of filling fell out and cannot be replaced, your dentist may recommend a tooth replacement option. This can include a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture. These options are designed to restore the function and appearance of your missing tooth.
A dental implant is a popular choice for tooth replacement, as it is a permanent solution that looks and feels like a natural tooth. It involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as a replacement for the tooth root. A crown is then placed on top of the post to complete the restoration.
A bridge is another option for replacing a missing tooth. It involves using the adjacent teeth to support a false tooth that fills in the gap. This is a good option for those who have healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth.
Partial dentures are removable appliances that are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are made of a combination of metal and acrylic and are designed to blend in with your natural teeth.
Restore Your Smile with Expert Care!
At Cobblestone Dental, we understand the stress of unexpected dental issues like a lost filling. Our experienced team of dentist in Grande Prairie is here to provide prompt, reliable care to restore your smile and ensure your comfort. Don’t let a missing filling disrupt your day—schedule your appointment with Cobblestone Dental today and experience compassionate, top-quality dental care tailored just for you.