Lost Filling
Natick, MA
 Did you just bite into your favorite candy and hear a sudden crack? Or maybe you realized a piece of your tooth is missing while you were brushing. It could be that your filling has come loose or broken. Fillings play a crucial role in dental health, they not only replace parts of your tooth that have been damaged by cavities but also help stop future tooth decay. Any delay in addressing a lost or broken filling could lead to bigger dental complications down the line, hence it's essential to understand, identify and rectify it.
Identifying a Lost or Broken Filling
Lost or broken fillings are a common dental issue that should never be ignored. You may not always notice when a filling falls out, particularly if it's a small one or placed in a location difficult to see, like the back of your mouth. However, certain signs and symptoms can indicate whether you've lost a filling.
Here's how you can identify a lost or broken filling:
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Pain or Sensitivity: Once a filling falls out, your tooth may become considerably more sensitive to temperature changes, sweet foods, and pressure. If this occurs, there's a possibility it could be due to a lost filling.
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A Sharp Edge or Hole: If you feel a sharp edge or hole with your tongue, there's a chance part or all of a filling has fallen out. You might even be able to see the hole if it's in a visible area.
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Change in Bite: You may notice a difference in how your teeth align when you bite down. This can suggest that a filling has broken or fallen out.
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A Piece of Filling: Sometimes, you may find a piece of filling material in your mouth. This is a sure sign of a broken or lost filling. |
Please bear in mind, only a professional dental examination can confirm whether you've lost or broken a filling. If you suspect a lost filling, you should reach out to Elite Dental of Natick as soon as possible. Delaying a visit to the dentist will likely lead to more extensive, and more expensive, treatment in the future.
Immediate Actions to Take After Losing a Filling
First things first, remove the lost filling if it's still in your mouth. This might seem obvious, but it's important to ensure you don't accidentally swallow it or breathe it in. Remember, it's a foreign object that does not belong in your digestive or respiratory system.
Next, clean the affected area gently but thoroughly. You can use a toothbrush and toothpaste, just as you would when brushing your teeth normally. However, aim carefully as the area could be sensitive, and you don't want to cause further discomfort.
Until you can come see the dentist, make sure to keep your mouth, especially the area around the affected tooth, as clean as possible. Food particles can accumulate and lead to further complications.
It's best to stick to soft foods and avoid the damaged area while chewing. Hard or crunchy foods could cause further damage.
Rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution can help keep the area clean and soothe any pain.
Remember - these are only temporary solutions. A visit to our dentist is critical to assess the damage and determine the best course of action. Missing fillings can lead to other dental problems like tooth decay and infections if not treated promptly.
If you break or lose a dental filling, contact Elite Dental of Natick at (508) 319-9339 and we will get you scheduled for an appointment as soon as possible. |
