Feeling anxious or concerned is natural if you realize you just lost a dental filling. Depending on what happened, you may even be hurting. Sometimes, chewing something too sticky can yank your restoration out of place. It can also happen if you’re participating in team or contact sports and take a blow to the face.
Whatever your circumstances, you’re likely fretting about what to do next. First, take a deep breath to calm your mind. Then, keep reading to learn about four actions you can take to get the help you need to repair your smile!
Step #1: Call Your Emergency Dentist
If your tooth feels okay, you might think that your situation doesn’t require immediate attention or that you can wait to call your dentist. However, don’t forget that your filling was placed to protect a decayed or damaged tooth. Without it, your pearly white could become infected or break even further. The longer you wait to be seen, the more likely you are to need more costly and complex repairs due to additional harm.
Call your dentist and let them know what occurred so they can schedule an appropriate appointment. If your situation is urgent, they’ll try to fit you into the schedule on the same day.
Step #2: Locate the Filling
Next, try to find the lost filling to take with you to the dentist because if it’s newer and in good condition, they may be able to reuse it. Rinse away any dirt or debris, then store it safely in a baggy or container somewhere it won’t get lost.
Step #3: Address Discomfort
Avoid eating anything on that side of your mouth until your dentist has been able to treat the problem. If your affected tooth is aching, rinse with warm salt water to naturally disinfect your mouth to prevent bacteria from penetrating it. This also acts as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory, but taking Tylenol or ibuprofen is usually also a safe way to address discomfort.
Step 4: Try a Temporary Filling
If you’re concerned about bits of food or other debris contaminating your tooth, you can apply a small amount of temporary filling material carried in many pharmacies. If you have orthodontic or dental wax, you could also try placing a small blob onto the exposed tooth to create a barrier between it and any germs in your mouth.
If your dentist is unable to repurpose the lost restoration, they’ll most likely recommend a new filling that can potentially last for another 10+ years!
About the Practice
At Weiss Dental Arts, you benefit from two dentists dedicated to helping you improve your dental health. With decades of combined experience, Dr. Weiss and Dr. Fulreader offer a full range of services to meet all your family’s needs conveniently under one roof. They combine a welcoming and friendly approach with state-of-the-art technology to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate results intended to last. If you’ve lost a filling and need it replaced, you can request an appointment on the website or call (847) 864-0188.