Lost Tooth Fillings

Tooth fillings are used to restore damaged teeth. However, in some cases, a filling can also be damaged and may come loose due to decay that has developed underneath.

The decay causes changes in the tooth, which causes the filling to fit improperly in the tooth. Though a lost filling is rarely an emergency, it can cause pain and discomfort. In this case, you need to see your dentist right away.

Other Causes of a Lost Filling

• Biting too hard on a tooth with a large filling
• If saliva enters the cavity during the filling procedure, it unsettles the bonding of the material, especially if it’s a composite resin material
• Appearance of small cracks at the edges of the fillings due to wear over time
• Leaking fillings caused by poor placement
• Bruxism, or clenching and grinding

Symptoms of a Lost Filling

Recognising the signs of a lost filling can help you seek timely dental care.

Common symptoms include:

• Sudden Tooth Sensitivity: You may become extremely sensitive to foods and beverages that are spicy, cold, sweet, or acidic.
• Pain or Discomfort: Exposed tooth structure can be painful, especially when chewing or biting.
• Visible Hole or Gap: A visible hole or gap where the filling used to be is a clear indication that the filling is missing.
• Rough or Sharp Edges: The area around the lost filling may feel rough or have sharp edges that can irritate the tongue or cheek.

What To Do for a Lost Tooth Filling

• Remove the filling to avoid swallowing it or breathing it in
• Putting a few drops of clove oil into a cotton swab and placing it on the afflicted area will help relieve discomfort.
• Brush your teeth carefully and remove food debris inside the hole
• Rinse mouth with warm saltwater solution after eating
• Call your dentist to schedule an appointment for a filling replacement
• Have a discussion with your dentist about why the tooth was lost

Replacing a Lost Filling

To replace the lost filling, your dentist at Thornton Dental will remove the decay between the tooth and the filling and place a new filling. Sometimes, the dentist only needs to repair the old filling instead of replacing it.

Your dentist may re-evaluate the filling to be used. This can be gold, amalgam, composite, or porcelain. Talk with your dentist about how you would like your filling to look. This can help you and your dentist to pick the material that suits your needs.

Preventing Future Loss of Fillings

While it’s not always possible to prevent the loss of a filling, certain practices can reduce the risk:

• Good Oral Hygiene: Floss and brush teeth to avoid dental rot, which can damage fillings.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: By scheduling routine dental check-ups, your dentist can keep an eye on the health of your fillings and identify any problems early.
• Mouthguards: If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can protect your fillings and reduce the risk of damage.
• Healthy Diet: Reducing your intake of acidic and sugary foods will assist in preserving the integrity of your fillings and stopping decay.

Same-Day Emergency Response in Thornton

Thornton Dental offers the Same Day Emergency Appointments!

We provide same-day appointments for dental emergency cases and comprehensive care for almost any dental emergency. Our experienced and responsive dental team provides treatment in a caring and compassionate manner.

Call us on (02) 4966 2996 or book your appointment online today!

Visit us at Thornton Shopping Centre, Shop 30/1 Taylor Ave in Thornton.