What to Do If Your Tooth Filling Falls Out

Dental fillings are a way to restore function and shape back to a tooth damaged or decayed. When dentists give you a filling, they remove decayed tooth material to then fill the cavity with the filling material of preference.

By closing the space with the filling, bacteria won’t be able to spread over the cavity, this also prevents further decay. Some of the materials used for fillings include Gold, Amalgam (silver), Composite resin, or even Porcelain.

Typically fillings last around 15 years, however, different aspects might affect the durability of fillings. Gold and amalgam fillings can last up to 30 years in the right circumstances. Porcelain and composite fillings can be more fragile, but also more cosmetically appealing.

What to do if my tooth filling fell out?

Your filling fell out? Don’t panic! Although this situation is rarely an emergency, it's important to act quickly as the interior of the tooth will be exposed to bacteria and food particles. You need to schedule an appointment with the dentist to prevent any additional problems and get the filling back on.

Even though fillings are meant to last for a long time, they are several factors that will cause the material to wear out. Whenever a filling falls out, you may feel more sensitivity in the area or even pain. Some of the most common reasons for filling lost are:

• Biting into hard food.
• Grinding your teeth (bruxism).
• New decay around the filling.
• Trauma to the tooth or root.
• The pressure of chewing can loosen fillings over time.
• Saliva may lose the bonding of the filling progressively.

In the meantime, until you see the dentist, you need to protect the tooth involved. Keep your mouth and the area clean as possible, follow your regular oral hygiene routine. Brush gently around the area at least twice a day, especially if you feel sensitivity or pain. Also, avoid chewing on the affected tooth to keep food particles away.

If you are experiencing some discomfort or tooth pain, you can take a pain reliever like Tylenol or ibuprofen while you contact your dentist.

Once you go to your dental appointment, the dentist will evaluate the tooth and will replace the filling based on your preferences. After the filling replacement, you might feel some discomfort that will gradually disappear within a few hours.

How can you prevent a filling from coming loose?

The key to preventing a filling from coming loose is having a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and eating healthy food can help your teeth be stronger and prevents any dental problem.

Regular checkups with the dentist at least every 6 months are also essential to prevent your filling to fall out and to detect any early problems. It is also recommended to have a professional cleaning at least twice a year to keep your smile as healthy as possible. You can schedule a consultation here.

Don’t wait until your filling falls out and hurts to take care of it. It’s up to you to help your filling last as long as possible with the proper care. On your next dental appointment ask your dentist to check your fillings and ensure they are in a good shape.

You can learn a little bit more about how to properly take care of your teeth with a good oral health routine here. 

Dental fillings in Mexico  

Mexico is one of the top destinations when considering traveling for Dental Care.

The thing is, many clinics in Mexico offer a wide range of quality procedures using state-of-the-art tools just like many facilities in the States, the difference: the accessible prices.

Sani Dental Group knows the importance of offering only the best care, prices, and quality to their patients, and for this, we work day by day with the best available equipment and tools.

Being the largest dental group in Mexico, Sani Dental Group now has three clinics. Two in Los Algodones, and the newest facility in Cancun Riviera.

When visiting any of the three clinics, patients can expect high-quality procedures, qualified dentists, and receiving great care, which identifies Sani Dental Group.

If you’re interested in saving some money while taking care of your smile, call us, take advantage of how affordable dental fillings are at Sani Dental Group. We are ready to welcome you. We will gladly answer all of your questions and doubts.