What Should I Do if My Filling Falls Out?

Unfortunately, fillings do not last forever, which is why it is essential to know what to do if your filling falls out.

Although it is not uncommon for a dental filling to last for far longer than a decade, it is likely that it may fall out at some point, and it is essential to know exactly what to do when it happens.

Steps to Take If a Filling Falls Out

When and if your filling does fall out, following these four steps can help you handle the situation appropriately.

With that said, the most important thing to remember is to stay calm and continue to think clearly.

Make an appointment

The first thing to do after discovering that your dental filling has fallen out is to schedule an appointment with your dentist as quickly as possible. Most dentists are willing to accept emergency situations that involve the patient being in pain, especially if their office was the one to place the filling in the first place.

In the event your dentist can see you immediately, then the following three steps may not be necessary. However, it is still fairly common to have to wait until the next day before a dentist can see you because a filling that falls out is not always an emergency.

In the event, you have to wait for your appointment, be sure to follow the next three steps of the process.

Numb the affected area

The next thing to do is to numb the affected area with an over-the-counter remedy, such as clove oil. By numbing the affected area, you should be able to reduce the amount of residual pain that is felt.

To apply the numbing agent correctly and safely, be sure to use a soft cotton swab and gently rub the affected area slowly. Remember, the tooth that had the filling is likely to be extra sensitive, so be careful.

Take pain reliever

While numbing the area using clove oil should help reduce the amount of pain and swelling, there is still likely to be some pain that exists.

To control the pain and keep it at a manageable level, you can take pain reliever medicine, such as ibuprofen acetaminophen. Be sure only to take the recommended amount, however, and do your best to keep your mind off of the pain. For instance, try watching your favorite funny movie to keep your mind off the pain.

Wash your mouth out

Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to wash your mouth out thoroughly after your filling falls out.

After your dental filling falls out of your tooth in the affected area are likely to be much more sensitive and vulnerable. Subsequently, be sure to brush your teeth very softly and use mouthwash as the primary source of dental cleaning.

For best practice, use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash and invest in a soft toothbrush to ensure your teeth in the affected area receive the care they need.

Go to https://thelaureldentist.com for dental filling information or call Montpelier Family Dentistry at (301) 605-1132.