Losing a dental filling can be alarming. One moment you’re eating lunch, the next you’re feeling something hard in your mouth—and suddenly you realize your tooth filling has fallen out. While it may not always feel like a dental emergency, acting quickly is key to preventing further damage and pain.
At Fieldstone Dental in Brandon, MB, we help patients with lost fillings all the time. In this article, we’ll explain why fillings fall out, what to do right away, and how to avoid future problems.
Why Do Fillings Fall Out?
Fillings are durable, but they’re not indestructible. A variety of factors can lead to a filling coming loose or falling out:
- Normal wear and tear over time
- Biting hard foods (ice, nuts, candy)
- Tooth decay forming underneath the filling
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
- Poor bonding during the original procedure
Even if your filling is relatively new, it can still come loose if the surrounding tooth structure weakens.
Signs Your Filling Has Fallen Out
It may not always be obvious when a filling comes out. Look for these common signs:
- Sudden tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet food
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Feeling a sharp edge or hole in the tooth with your tongue
- Visible loss of the filling or seeing it in your mouth
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait. The exposed tooth is vulnerable to damage, decay, and infection.
What to Do Immediately If a Filling Falls Out
1. Stay Calm
It may feel urgent, but you have time to handle the situation calmly.
2. Rinse Your Mouth
Use warm salt water to rinse away any debris and keep the area clean.
3. Recover the Filling (If Possible)
While it likely can’t be reused, your dentist may want to inspect it.
4. Avoid Chewing on That Side
Stick to soft foods and avoid using the affected tooth to prevent pain or cracking.
5. Protect the Tooth Temporarily
You can use sugar-free gum or orthodontic wax to cover the exposed area temporarily.
6. Call Your Dentist
Contact Fieldstone Dental right away to book a restorative appointment. We offer same-day care for dental emergencies.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t try to glue the filling back in.
- Don’t use DIY home kits unless advised by a dentist.
- Don’t ignore the issue – waiting can lead to infection or tooth fractures.
How Fieldstone Dental Can Help
At Fieldstone Dental, we provide fast, professional care when dental fillings fall out. We offer:
- Same-day appointments for urgent dental issues
- Gentle, pain-free restorative treatments
- Durable, long-lasting filling options including tooth-coloured composite
- Full evaluations to prevent further decay
Located right here in Brandon, MB, our team is ready to restore your smile quickly and comfortably.
How to Prevent Fillings from Falling Out
Preventive care can help fillings last longer. Here’s what we recommend:
- Brush twice daily and floss regularly
- Avoid chewing hard items like ice or pens
- Visit the dentist every 6 months for checkups
- Consider stronger materials (like porcelain or composite) for high-stress areas
- Address any signs of tooth grinding (bruxism) that can loosen fillings
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave a lost filling untreated?
No. Without the filling, the tooth is exposed to bacteria, food particles, and potential damage.
Will a lost filling cause pain?
You may experience sensitivity or discomfort, especially if the underlying tooth is exposed or decayed.
How soon should I see a dentist?
As soon as possible. The sooner you get treated, the lower the risk of complications.
Can you replace just the filling, or will I need more work?
If the tooth is otherwise healthy, replacing the filling is usually sufficient. If there’s damage or decay, more extensive work may be needed.
Final Thoughts
A lost tooth filling might seem minor, but it shouldn’t be ignored. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent pain, infection, or further damage.
At Fieldstone Dental, our experienced team is here to help you with quick, gentle, and effective care.
Contact Fieldstone Dental in Brandon, MB
Have a filling that just came out? Don’t wait. Book a same-day appointment with our friendly team.
📞 Call us today at (204) 520 3678
🖥️ Schedule online
📍 Visit us at Fieldstone Dental, Brandon, Manitoba
