Dental fillings are one of the most common procedures around—and occasionally, they can come loose. While losing a filling can be a little disconcerting, it’s not uncommon. Don’t panic. There are a few easy steps you can take to protect your tooth until you can see your Fioritto dentist.
Step 1: Stay calm
First of all: don’t worry! Fillings can fall out for a variety of reasons, including wear and tear, decay underneath the filling or even a hard bite into something crunchy. While it might feel strange or uncomfortable, losing a filling doesn’t necessarily mean an emergency. As long as you follow these steps and schedule a dental appointment right away, there’s no cause for alarm.
Step 2: Remove the filling and keep the area clean
If the filling is still in your mouth, gently remove it to avoid accidentally swallowing it. Once the filling is out, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to help clean the area and remove any food particles. This will help reduce the risk of infection or irritation until you can see your Fioritto dentist.
Step 3: Protect the exposed tooth
Without the filling in place, your tooth will be more vulnerable to damage, decay and sensitivity. Try to avoid chewing or putting pressure on the tooth when eating or drinking. Stick to soft foods that won’t irritate the area.
If the exposed tooth is causing discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. A cold compress on the outside of your cheek can also help reduce any swelling or irritation.
Step 4: Call your Fioritto dentist
The most important step is to schedule an appointment with your Fioritto dentist as soon as possible. Losing a filling can expose your tooth to further damage, so it’s wise to get it repaired as soon as possible. Your Fioritto dentist will assess the situation and recommend the best course of action—whether it’s replacing the filling or exploring other restorative options. When you schedule your appointment, we may have suggestions for over-the-counter dental products that can help protect your tooth until your appointment.
Step 5: Protect future fillings
Fillings typically don’t last forever. However, there are a few things you can do to help extend their lifespan. First, maintain good oral hygiene at all times. Regular brushing and flossing will help prevent decay around your fillings and keep them firmly in place.
Next, try to avoid hard or sticky foods. Chewing on hard objects like ice or sticky candies like caramel can loosen or damage fillings. Find softer alternatives that will satisfy your cravings to keep your teeth safe.
Finally, don’t forget to schedule regular visits to your Fioritto dentist! Routine dental visits allow us to monitor the condition of your fillings and catch any signs of trouble early.
Losing a filling can feel like a big problem, but with quick action and a little care, you can keep your tooth safe until you see your Fioritto dentist. If you’ve lost a filling or want to schedule your next check-up, call Fioritto Family Dental today.