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You probably haven\u2019t spent much time thinking about your filling after it was placed because it blended in perfectly with your smile. You may have even forgotten about the filling–that is until it fell out. Fillings are designed to be a long-term solution for decay, but they don\u2019t last forever. If you have a lost dental filling, don\u2019t panic! Here are 4 things you should do.<\/p>\n
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A filling can be a scary situation for some people, while others don\u2019t view it as concerning if they aren\u2019t in any pain. While it isn\u2019t a life-threatening situation, you need to be seen by a dentist. Your specific situation will determine if you need an emergency dentist, or you can wait until for an opening in their schedule. Here are the steps you should take to protect your tooth from additional damage:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not all lost fillings need urgent attention. If you are in significant pain or the tooth has also suffered damage, like a break, don\u2019t wait to see your dentist. Contact your dental office for an immediate appointment. They\u2019ll address your pain and repair your tooth. If you aren\u2019t having any serious discomfort or other major concerns, you can schedule an appointment in a day or two. Don\u2019t wait too long because your tooth will be vulnerable to bacteria and its structure will be weakened. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your tooth aches, take an OTC pain reliever to manage your discomfort. You can also apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to numb the area temporarily. You can lessen the risk of pain by skipping any hot or cold foods and drinks. You should avoid chewing with the tooth until after it has been repaired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your tooth\u2019s defense system and structure will be weakened. If bacteria enter the inside of your tooth, a new filling won\u2019t be enough. You can protect your smile by stepping up your daily brushing and flossing habits. Gargle with salt water to remove anything left behind by your toothbrush or floss. It will kill bacteria while reducing pain and inflammation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can purchase a dental wax or temporary filling material to shield your tooth. Although this provides a quick fix in a pinch, it\u2019s not designed to be used long-term. You must still see your dentist soon to repair the filling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although no one has time for an unplanned dental visit, don\u2019t delay seeing your dentist. They\u2019ll guide you through the stressful situation and rehabilitate your smile, so you can get back to enjoying the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
About Dr. Brian Coats<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Coats<\/a> earned his dental degree at the Creighton University School of Dentistry after studying biology at Colorado State University. He is a proud U.S. Navy veteran and a member of various professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. If you need a dentist in a hurry, contact our office<\/a> today for an emergency appointment.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" You probably haven\u2019t spent much time thinking about your filling after it was placed because it blended in perfectly with your smile. You may have even forgotten about the filling–that is until it fell out. Fillings are designed to be a long-term solution for decay, but they don\u2019t last forever. If you have a lost […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[3],"class_list":["post-18","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized","tag-emergency-dentist"],"yoast_head":"\n