A lost filling is one of the most common dental situations people encounter, and reactions to it range from immediate panic to complete indifference. The reality sits somewhere in between. A lost filling does not automatically constitute an emergency, but it does require attention, and how quickly depends on what you are experiencing.
Fillings can come out for several reasons. The most common is recurrent decay beneath or around the filling, which weakens the bond between the restoration and the tooth. Fillings can also fail because of age, biting forces, or a chip in the tooth structure that takes part of the filling with it.
A filling falling out is not a neutral event. It means the tooth structure beneath it is now exposed and unprotected.
Retrieve the filling if you can and bring it to your appointment. Occasionally, it can be rebonded.
Keep the area clean. Rinse with warm water after eating and brush the area gently. Food packing into an open cavity causes rapid decay and can be painful.
Use temporary filling material from a pharmacy if the tooth is painful or you cannot get a dental appointment quickly. These products are designed for short-term use only and are not a substitute for proper treatment.
Avoid chewing on that side of the mouth until the tooth has been restored.
A lost filling becomes urgent when any of the following apply:
The tooth is causing significant pain, which suggests the nerve is exposed or decay has reached the pulp. There is visible decay in the cavity, or the tooth looks dark or soft. Part of the tooth has broken away along with the filling, leaving sharp edges. You notice swelling in the gum near the tooth, which may indicate an abscess developing.
If any of these apply, contact Berkhamsted Dental on 01442 865 646 promptly. We treat dental emergencies and will advise on the urgency of your situation.
Depending on how much tooth structure remains and the extent of decay, treatment may involve a new composite filling, a larger composite build-up, or a crown if the tooth is significantly weakened. In cases where decay has reached the pulp, root canal treatment will be required first.
The longer a lost filling is left untreated, the more likely it is that a simple replacement filling becomes a more complex, more expensive procedure. Book a check-up at Berkhamsted Dental today.
Whether you’re booking your first appointment, have a question about our treatments, or simply want advice on your dental care — our friendly team is here to help.
