Dental fillings can last for several years, but unfortunately, they are not permanent. At some point, you may feel one of your fillings fall out, or you might simply look in the mirror and see a small hole in your tooth where a filling used to be. What should you do in such a situation? Do not panic. Instead, take practical steps to get your dental emergency under control so you can go back to enjoying a healthy, well-protected smile. Here is an overview of what you should do:
Call Your Dentist
Even if your tooth is not in any pain, you should call your dentist as soon as you notice that you have lost a filling. Without your restoration, your teeth could easily incur further damage, so it is best to get the issue fixed as quickly as possible. Most dentists are willing to adjust their schedule so they can care for emergency patients on short notice.
When you go to your dentist, bring your filling with you (if you still have it). In some cases, fillings are reusable.
Be Careful About What You Eat
Before your filling gets replaced, your tooth may be extra-sensitive to outside stimuli. Things like hot, cold, spicy, and acidic foods may cause irritation. Try to eat a mild, soft diet and avoid chewing with the vulnerable tooth.
Cover the Cavity
You may be able to cover your cavity with dental wax or a temporary filling material. These options can provide a layer of protection for your tooth while you are waiting for your dental appointment. However, they should not be used as an excuse to delay professional care.
Keep Your Mouth Clean
Maintaining a clean mouth can prevent bacteria from sneaking into the exposed tooth and worsening its condition. If possible, brush your teeth 30 – 60 minutes after each meal. It can also be helpful to swish with warm salt water several times a day in order to reduce oral bacteria.
Manage Your Pain
If you are in pain because of your lost filling, you may need to use an over-the-counter pain reliever to take the edge off of your discomfort. Many people find that applying a bit of clove oil to an aching tooth can help to keep pain under control as well. You could also try applying a topical numbing agent, such as Anbesol or Orajel.
A lost dental filling can be a scary, uncomfortable situation. However, as long as you seek prompt care and take appropriate measures to protect your tooth, your smile’s wellness should be back on track in no time!
Meet the Practice
Dr. George Keanna is an experienced holistic dentist in Albuquerque. He can often accept same-day emergency appointments, and he offers biocompatible tooth-colored fillings to treat spots of dental decay. If you are concerned about a lost restoration or have other questions about your oral health, Dr. Keanna and our team would be happy to serve you. Contact Natural Dental Services at 505-292-8533.