Millions of dental filling procedures are done yearly in the United States. With it being so common, there are bound to be times when fillings will come loose, crack, or dislodge from the tooth. You may be wondering what the symptoms are and what to do if it happens to you.
Dental fillings, also called restorations, treat cavities. They also help prevent tooth decay. When you go for an appointment for a filling, the dentist removes all tooth decay and inserts the filling. They remain in the tooth from 5 to 25 years, depending on the material used, location of the filling, and at-home oral hygiene practices. Over time, sometimes, they just become loose. Added tooth decay and stress can also cause a dental filling to become loose or fall out, as can eating sticky or hard candies.
Symptoms of a loose, broken, or missing filling are increased sensitivity, pain, or the surface of your tooth just feeling “ off.” Sometimes, you can look at the tooth with a mirror and see that the filling has separated from the tooth. Early detection is vital because you do not want your tooth to receive more damage.
If you believe you do have a loose filling, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. If he can’t get you in for an appointment quickly, he may be able to give you suggestions on how to manage the situation until he can see you. Some dentists recommend a temporary filling or dental wax to protect the tooth until a dentist can properly fix it.
It is important to continue brushing and flossing as you usually do. To kill bacteria and help guard against infection, gargle with salt water or an antiseptic mouthwash. Avoid chewing on the tooth until you can get your dental filling fixed.
If you are in pain, you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve your discomfort. Many people also find relief by using cold compresses or an oral numbing gel.
Once your dentist can see you, she will remove the broken or loose dental filling and replace it with a new filling. Sensitivity may remain for a day or so, but you should be feeling back to normal very quickly.
To help your fillings last longer, be sure to brush and floss regularly. Avoid grinding your teeth; use a mouthguard at night if necessary. You will also want to stay away from eating ice or extremely sticky foods. When eating anything hard, chew carefully. Make sure to see a reputable dentist regularly and follow all his directions.
By taking these precautions, you may be able to minimize your chances of encountering a loose, broken, or cracked filling. However, if you notice that something feels wrong, don’t hesitate to call your dentist. He is eager to help you and make sure that your teeth are healthy for years to come.
Request an appointment here: https://www.gearydental.com or call Geary Dental Center at (415) 702-1310 for an appointment in our San Francisco office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in San Francisco, CA.
Are you getting a dental filling in the near future? Dental fillings are needed to restore teeth that are in bad shape. The procedure itself is very common and a lot of people rely on it to improve their oral health.With all dental procedures comes the question of whether or not pain will be involved.…
Wondering why a dental fillings is also known as a direct dental restoration? There are both direct and indirect restoration options available, with each option addressing a particular dental problem. Examples of indirect options include dental crowns, dental bridges, dental veneers and dental implants, as these types of restorations are constructed outside of the mouth.…
Cosmetic dentistry is the specialty that focuses on improving the way that the teeth appear. Additionally, cosmetic dentists make an effort to improve overall function. There are many different cosmetic dentistry options for improving one’s teeth and gums, making it necessary to understand how each works. Ready to learn more?Understanding the different types of cosmetic…
A traditional dental bridge can replace up to three or four consecutive teeth on the same side of a dental arch. It is one of the most common dental replacements you can get. Knowing how to care for it can help maintain your new smile for a long time. Here are some tips for ensuring…
A traditional dental bridge can replace up to three or four consecutive teeth on the same side of a dental arch. It is one of the most common dental replacements you can get. Knowing how to care for it can help maintain your new smile for a long time. Here are some tips for ensuring…
For dental emergencies, people can go to an emergency dentist or an emergency room. However, several things should be considered before deciding where to seek medical help. Just like any other medical emergency, dental emergencies also require different levels of care. This depends on their severity. The ideal place to go for treatment when you…