Immediate Steps to Take When Losing Filling or Crown

Immediate Steps to Take When Losing Filling or Crown

We know how scary it can be when you lose a filling or crown. However, it may happen for everybody who uses fillings, dental crowns and bridges. If one comes loose, you might feel pain or sensitivity. In this situation, you need to take the right action until you get immediate professional help. Here, we’ll help you learn quick steps to feel better and protect your tooth, as well as the common causes of this problem. This blog will guide you through what to do right away when losing a filling or crown.

What Are the Causes of Losing Filling or Crowns?

Though a professional dentist ensures your crowns and fillings are kept in place strongly, several reasons lead them to fall out. Learn these reasons to better protect your dental fillings or crowns.

  • Over time, chewing and biting with your teeth can wear down fillings or crowns. 
  • Decay makes the tooth structure weaker, leading to losing the filling or crown.
  • Chewing sticky foods like caramel or hard foods like nuts can pull or break your filling or crown.
  •  A hit to the mouth from an accident, such as a fall or playing sports, can cause a filling or crown to come loose.
  • Grinding your teeth can put too much pressure on the filling or crown.

Things to Do Immediately After You Lose a Filling or Crown

First of all, try to keep calm and relaxed so you can do the next necessary steps confidently. Then, carefully follow the steps explained below one by one.

Remove the Filling or Crown

If you notice your permanent filling or crown is still in your mouth, carefully remove it. This will prevent any risk of accidentally swallowing it or choking. Once it’s out, keep it in a safe place, as your dentist might be able to reuse it if it’s still in good condition. Place it in a small container or bag to bring with you to your dental appointment.

After You Lose a Filling or Crown rinse your mouth

Rinse Your Mouth

After removing the filling or crown, gently rinse your mouth with warm water. This will help clean the area and remove any small pieces of debris that may have come loose. It’s important to keep the exposed tooth as clean as possible to avoid infections or further damage until you can see a dentist.

Protect the Tooth

While waiting to see your dentist, it’s important to protect the exposed tooth. You can use dental cement, which is available at most pharmacies, to temporarily cover the area. If dental cement isn’t available, using a small piece of sugar-free gum can also help protect the tooth from further damage or irritation.

Avoid Certain Foods

To prevent additional pain or damage, eat soft foods only until you can visit your dentist. Avoid anything sticky, like candy or hard foods, such as nuts or ice, which could harm the exposed tooth. Extremely hot or cold foods can also cause discomfort and should be avoided.

Call Your Dentist

The most important step is to contact your dentist right away. Explain the situation and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Your dentist will assess the condition of the tooth and decide the best way to restore it, whether by reapplying the filling or crown or creating a new one.

Need Immediate Help with Your Lost Filling or Crown? Count on Us!

At Smile Point Dental, we’re equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to repair your lost fillings or crowns quickly and adequately. Please wait no longer until the issue gets worse. Contact us now for your dental emergency!

The Temporary Solutions to Manage Pain and Sensitivity?

Losing a filling or crown can make your tooth feel sensitive or even painful, especially when exposed to air, food, or drinks. To manage the discomfort, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications can help reduce the pain and any swelling. If you prefer home remedies, applying a bit of clove oil directly on the tooth can provide temporary relief because of its natural numbing effect.

How to Keep the Tooth Clean and Safe Until Your Appointment?

Keeping the exposed tooth clean is very important to avoid infections or further damage. There are several things you can do.

  • Gently brushing the area with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help clean the area and reduce the risk of infection.
  • Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until you see your dentist.
  • Be cautious not to eat anything sticky or hard.
  • Cover the tooth with dental cement or sugar-free gum. 

How Will Your Dentist Repair or Replace a Filling or Crown?

When you visit your dentist, they will first examine the tooth to evaluate the damage. If the filling or crown is still usable and in good condition, the dentist might clean the area and simply reattach it. They will ensure the fit is secure and that there are no signs of decay under the crown. 

However, if the filling or crown is damaged or can’t be reused, the dentist will remove any leftover debris from the tooth. Then, they may place a temporary filling or crown until a new one can be made. In cases where decay is found, the dentist will clean the decay and prepare the tooth for a new filling or crown. A new crown will usually be custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly and ensure a comfortable bite.

Final Word

By and large, the next time you lose a filling or crown, just stay calm, take quick action, and follow the tips we explained in this blog. This way, you can prevent further damage and discomfort. Moreover, the Smile Point Dental team is always ready to help you with lost fillings or crowns. Our experienced team will provide you with quick, reliable care to restore your oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and let us get your dental health back on track!

FAQs

How long can you leave a filling that has fallen out? 

It’s best not to leave a fallen filling for too long. You should see your dentist as soon as possible, usually within a few days, to have it replaced or repaired. The longer you wait, the higher the risk of tooth decay or further damage to the tooth.

Can I brush my teeth if my filling fell out?

Yes, you can brush your teeth if a filling has fallen out, but be very gentle around the affected area. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid scrubbing the exposed tooth too hard, as it might be sensitive. 

Can you push a filling back in?

It is not advisable to push a filling back into place yourself. Fillings are designed to be securely placed by a dentist who can ensure the correct fit and seal. Trying to reinsert it yourself can cause further damage or lead to infection. It’s best to keep the filling safe and visit your dentist for proper reattachment.

Can salt water tighten loose teeth?

Saltwater cannot tighten loose teeth. While rinsing with warm salt water can help keep the area clean and reduce discomfort or inflammation, it does not address the underlying issue of a loose filling or crown. 

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