Whether they wear out over time or come loose after you bite on something hard, dental fillings can fall out for numerous reasons. Regardless of why it happens, knowing the steps to take when a filling falls out is crucial, as the exposed tooth will likely be painful and could be prone to more damage. Here are a few tips to keep in mind. 

What to Do If a Filling Falls Out

First and foremost, contact your dentist. The sooner you schedule an appointment, the more likely it is the filling can be replaced. Keep the filling in a safe place until your appointment and make sure it’s kept clean. 

In terms of dental care, continue cleaning around the affected tooth leading up to your appointment. Take extra care however, as it’s likely the tooth will be sensitive due to the missing filling. When eating, chew on the opposite side of your mouth to prevent food from becoming lodged in the tooth. If you experience discomfort, try taking over-the-counter pain medications, like ibuprofen. 

How to Protect Fillings

Visiting your dentist often will identify any issues with fillings. That way, you can address problems before they occur and prevent fillings from breaking loose in the first place. Keep in mind that new areas of decay can compromise the stability of your teeth. This highlights the importance of brushing and flossing once a day. 

The foods you eat also play a role in dental care. Steer clear of hard, sticky foods right after the filling has been placed. In the long-term, highly acidic foods and drinks can compromise the health of enamel. After eating citrus fruits or drinking fruit juices, rinse with water to prevent acids from sitting on the teeth. 

Helmbrecht Dental in Fairbanks, AK, offers emergency care, which is crucial in the event of a lost or loose filling. They’re equipped to treat patients of all ages, and they offer a variety of services to keep your smile in top shape. Along with preventative care, they also provide cosmetic procedures, root canals, crowns, bridges, dental sealants, implants, and wisdom teeth extractions. Schedule an appointment today by calling (907) 456-1237, or visit the website to learn more about their available treatments.