If your filling falls out, it’s important to get it replaced as soon as possible. This will prevent tooth decay and other problems from developing in that area.

You can manage pain by taking over-the-counter pain medication until you can get in to see the dentist. If the area is very sensitive, you can also try using a numbing agent.

Causes

Dental fillings are made of tough materials, but they can break down over time and loosen or fall out. Losing a filling can be a sign of serious tooth decay and may require the immediate attention of your Reston dentist.

There are several factors that can lead to a lost filling, including new decay around the filling, grinding or clenching habits (bruxism), and age. It’s important to visit your dentist as soon as you notice a loss of a filling because bacteria can grow and wreak havoc on the affected tooth.

The most common cause of a missing filling is decay in the surrounding tooth or tooth root area. This causes food debris and bacteria to build up in the gaps between your teeth and under your filling, which eventually causes it to crack or loosen.

Symptoms

A lost dental filling is a serious dental problem that requires immediate treatment. A missing filling exposes the tooth’s roots and tissues to air, pressure, cold, and heat, which can lead to pain or discomfort.

A loose dental filling can also be an indicator of other problems, such as new decay or damage to the tooth. It’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible, and they will give you recommendations for keeping the exposed tooth protected until the replacement is scheduled.

You can tell a filling has fallen out by feeling a hole or indentation when your tongue comes into contact with the tooth. It may be a deep indention, or it could just feel like a tiny crack when your tongue runs over the tooth.

Treatment

If you have lost a dental filling, the dentist can restore it by replacing the missing part. The treatment plan will depend on the damage and location of the tooth.

Your dentist will talk with you about the different options available for your tooth and your personal dental needs. Some options include dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants.

In some cases, the damaged tooth can be restored with a root canal, and in others, the tooth may require extraction. If you wait to seek care, the exposed area can lead to additional decay, which could result in a larger hole in your tooth or even loss of your tooth.

If your filling is causing discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol or ibuprofen to manage the pain until you can see us. Clove oil can also be applied to the exposed tooth and gums to reduce inflammation and sensitivity.

Prevention

When dental fillings are in place, they create a seal that keeps food from clinging to tooth enamel and causing decay. If this seal is broken down, decay-causing bacteria can easily enter the tooth and cause additional damage.

Keeping up with regular dentist appointments helps to prevent this type of problem, as your dentist will be able to spot any open margins or uneven wear that may need replacement before it becomes an issue.

A lost dental filling should be treated as soon as possible to protect the tooth and reduce the risk of nerve damage or other problems.

If you notice a small hole or indentation in your tooth, it means that a filling has fallen out. This is most often a result of eating a hard candy, biting down on something crunchy, or grinding your teeth.