{"id":296,"date":"2022-07-25T00:14:36","date_gmt":"2022-07-25T00:14:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oaktondentistrybydesign.com\/blog\/?p=296"},"modified":"2022-08-25T00:14:47","modified_gmt":"2022-08-25T00:14:47","slug":"how-to-handle-lost-dental-filling","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.oaktondentistrybydesign.com\/blog\/2022\/07\/how-to-handle-lost-dental-filling\/","title":{"rendered":"Lost Filling? Call Your Emergency Dentist"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Woman<\/a>If you\u2019re among the 92% of adults who have had a cavity in a permanent tooth, it was probably treated with a filling. Whether metal or composite, fillings are designed to serve as a long-term solution; however, they don\u2019t last forever. Eating a chewy piece of candy or new decay can lead to a lost dental filling. Not to mention, it\u2019s normal for it to lose its bond with your tooth over time. No matter the reason, don\u2019t panic. Here\u2019s what you should do until you see your emergency dentist.\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n\n

Is a Lost Filling a Dental Emergency?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019re going to need to see a dentist sooner rather than later, even if you aren\u2019t having any pain. Your tooth will be vulnerable to bacteria, infections, and breaks or fractures if it isn\u2019t repaired quickly. Instead of needing a replacement filling, you could end up losing your tooth. It\u2019s best to contact your emergency dentist<\/a> immediately for an appointment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Handling a Lost Filling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

After you\u2019ve called your dentist, follow a few simple tips to safeguard your tooth and manage your pain until your appointment:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

  1. Save Your Filling<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    If the filling is mostly in one piece, your dentist may be able to reuse it. Place it in a hard container with a lid to bring with you to your appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    1. Rinse Your Mouth<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      Gargle with salt water to remove any food or debris. Rinsing your mouth with \u00bd teaspoon of salt in a cup of water will kill bacteria while reducing any pain or inflammation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      1. Manage Any Pain<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

        Take an OTC pain reliever to manage your discomfort. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to numb the area temporarily. It\u2019s best to avoid hard, hot, cold, or acidic foods or drinks to prevent any sensitivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        1. Keep Your Mouth Clean<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

          Follow your regular oral hygiene routine. Commit to brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing every night. Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill any bacteria left behind by your toothbrush and floss. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          1. Eat Carefully<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

            Eat softer foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid damaging your tooth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            1. Use a Temporary Solution<\/strong><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

              Never attempt to glue or cement your filling back in place. Leave the mending for professionals, but you can use dental wax or temporary filling material to protect the exposed tooth. Don\u2019t rely on a temporary fix as a long-term solution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

              No one has time for an unplanned trip to the dentist, but don\u2019t delay getting the care you need. Your emergency dentist will address any pain and examine your mouth to create a personalized plan to replace your filling, so you can get back to your day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              About Dr. Joseph A. Khalil<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Dr. Khalil<\/a> earned his dental degree from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry and has completed additional education in prosthodontics. He provides all phases of cosmetic and restorative services to treat the most complex oral health issues. If you need an emergency dentist, contact our office<\/a> today.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

              If you\u2019re among the 92% of adults who have had a cavity in a permanent tooth, it was probably treated with a filling. Whether metal or composite, fillings are designed to serve as a long-term solution; however, they don\u2019t last forever. Eating a chewy piece of candy or new decay can lead to a lost […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[44],"yoast_head":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n