What to Do When You Lose a Filling

Dental fillings are a solution to repair decayed or damaged teeth. Dental fillings are used to protect our teeth, but it needs protecting too. If you lose a dental filling, contact a dentist in Dearborn immediately for advice on what to do next. 

Dental fillings help preserve the structural integrity of a tooth and hence directly impact an individual’s oral health. With modern technology and development in the dentistry industry today, the materials used for a dental filling last for several years, although they are prone to the same stress as your natural teeth. 

Just like your natural teeth, you can crack, chip, break, or wear down your dental filling by clenching too hard, eating, or grinding your teeth together. There is a possibility that your dental filling can fall out completely. While it is not possible to notice wear and tear in your dental fillings, you will be able to discern when it becomes loose or fall out. In such a case, you must immediately visit the nearest dental clinic to you. 

It is necessary to immediately respond to a lost or damaged dental filling. When a dental filling falls out or is damaged, there is a potential gap or hole created in the tooth that increases the risk of bacteria breeding in the gap. The moment bacteria start to manifest in your tooth it can only worsen the condition of your tooth and damage the structure of the tooth. Considering cavities form in places that are not easily accessible, you will not be able to remove the bacteria by simply brushing your teeth. 

When is a lost or damaged filling an emergency ?

When you begin to experience a great ordeal of pain and excessive bleeding is usually when your filling is in a dire state. In such cases, you must contact a dental clinic near you for an emergency appointment. In cases less severe, schedule an appointment with a dental clinic in Dearborn to evaluate and repair your dental filling. Before your appointment, to ease any discomfort: 

Try to avoid chewing on that side of the mouth.

Rinse your mouth with lukewarm water or saltwater.

Ensure that you brush your teeth and floss after every meal to avoid any bacteria from the food particles to accumulate in the teeth. 

How to take care of your dental filling ?  

Here are a few tips to take care of your dental fillings and prevent cavities from forming in your teeth. 

• Brush your teeth at least twice daily with a toothpaste that contains fluoride and floss every day.

• Avoid sugary or sticky food, and follow a healthy diet as much as possible. 

• Use alcohol-free and therapeutic mouthwash to rinse your mouth. 

• Avoid consuming tobacco products, dark-colored foods that can stain your teeth, and drinks such as wine or coffee. Make sure to rinse your mouth after if you do consume it. 

• Cut down on acidic drinks such as soda and juices.

• Avoid chewing or biting on hard foods such as nuts and ice.

• Schedule regular appointments with your dentist for a routine check-up, dental exams, and cleanups. 

A cracked or lost dental filling may not always pose a dental emergency, but it is best not to ignore it. For any information on dental fillings in Dearborn, contact a dentist near you.