Dental fillings are a common treatment and an important component of modern dentistry. They are the primary treatment option for cavities. Despite their strength and durability, fillings don’t last forever. Depending on the type of material and your oral care routine, fillings last anywhere between 5 to 25 years. Before you replace them, it’s possible that they can fall out. Fillings can fall out for a variety of reasons. You may wonder what to do if your filling falls out. Below you will find helpful tips to get you through the process.
What to Do If Your Filling Falls Out?
If your filling falls out or becomes loose, it’s important to address the issue right away. Consider the following tips to help you get through the process.
Contact Your Dentist:
Schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. If you experience any symptoms, such as pain or discomfort, get into the dentist as soon as possible. Follow your dentist’s instructions for how to care for your tooth until your appointment.
Keep Everything:
If your filling falls out, keep it and bring it to the dentist with you. This is especially true if you also lose any portion of your tooth. Your dentist can decide whether it’s possible to reuse it or if you need an entirely new one.
Oral Care Tips:
Do a salt water rinse right away to ensure the affected area is clean. This can be made using warm water and one-half of a teaspoon of salt. Gargle for a few seconds until the area is clean. You should continue with your regular oral care routine, but use caution around the affected tooth. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the filling fell out.
Protect Your Tooth:
If you can’t get to the dentist right away, use dental wax to protect your tooth. This can effectively protect the exposed area where the filling was. However, using dental wax is a temporary solution but is not a substitute for addressing the missing filling.
Factors That Impact Your Fillings
There are a number of reasons why your dental fillings in La Mirada may fall out or become loose. New decay around the filling if you do not have a consistent daily oral care routine. In addition, excess pressure from chewing too hard, biting down on hard foods, and grinding your teeth can cause issues with your filling. While fillings are highly durable and long-lasting, it’s important to care for your oral health to ensure your filling lasts as long as it is intended to.
One of the best ways to ensure your fillings last is to maintain a consistent daily oral care routine. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use non-abrasive toothpaste, as it can ensure that your filling material doesn’t wear down prematurely. In addition to brushing, floss at least once a day to remove debris from the hard-to-reach places between your teeth. An integral part of your oral care routine is regular dental visits. It is recommended that you visit the dentist every six months. This is beneficial as your dentist can monitor the integrity of your filling and replace it when necessary.
Dental Fillings in La Mirada
Dental fillings are an effective restorative dentistry treatment that can improve your overall oral health. If you experience issues such as tooth decay or need your filling replaced, contact the top dentist in La Mirada. The team at La Mirada Dental One Group is skilled in restorative and cosmetic dentistry treatment options. Contact their office today to schedule an appointment!