In the U.S., tooth decay is the most common chronic health condition there is in both children and adults. Lots of people have cavities, and many of them get fillings to repair them.
However, no filling can last forever, and yours could fall out for a variety of reasons. If that happens to you, here are the next steps you should take.
What Do I Do If My Filling Comes Loose?
If you lose a filling, the first thing to do is to find it. Taking care not to accidentally swallow it, use water to gently rinse the filling out of your mouth and set it somewhere secure. If well-maintained, it’s possible that your dentist could reattach it at your appointment. You can also apply a compress to stop any bleeding.
Then, you need to call your dentist to schedule an emergency appointment. They’ll try and get you in as quickly as possible, and they will give you a little advice on how to take care of yourself until then. This could include gently brushing the area, using a saltwater rinse, or putting dental wax on the area of decay to protect it. If you’re in pain, you can also take over-the-counter pain relievers or make use of a cold compress.
If your dentist isn’t available or it’s after hours, leave a detailed voicemail with the front desk. You can also try calling your dentist’s emergency number if they have one.
How Long do Fillings Usually Last?
While there are a few reasons that you could lose a filling, the chances of that happening rise as time goes on. Amalgam fillings have an average lifespan of 5-25 years, and composite fillings tend to last around 15. If your filling is at the higher end of that, you ought to be vigilant for signs of failure.
How Do I Care for a Dental Filling?
If you want your next filling to last as long as possible, here are some things you can try:
- Brush your teeth twice a day, and floss daily to prevent decay.
- Get a mouthguard if you grind your teeth.
- Don’t chew ice, hard nuts, or popcorn kernels.
- Avoid sticky, chewy candies that can pull out a filling.
- See your dentist often to ensure that your filling is in good condition.
About Our Practice
At Lake Nona Dental Group, we offer the high-quality care you’d get at a massive dental hospital with the calm, homey feeling of a small family practice. Our incredible dental team has perfected this balance, working hard to provide personalized treatment to our patients with a gentle touch. We also have six highly qualified dentists on staff with a variety of skills, meaning that whatever issue you’re facing, we can be there to help.
If you have any questions about dealing with a lost dental filling, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (407) 277-1779.
