My Dental Filling Popped Out - What Do I Do?

Unfortunately, dental fillings are not designed to last forever, and at some point, they may fall out of place.

This can happen due to many reasons, such as:

• An extension of the decay process that extends around the filling;
• The patient applies too much pressure when chewing;
• The patient bites from hard foods;
• Bruxism;
• Trauma that affected the tooth or its root. 

If you notice that one of your dental fillings has popped out, then the first thing you should do is schedule a visit to a dental office for a checkup

Until you get to the dentist's office, there are a few things that you can do at home to keep the damage to a minimum and protect your tooth. 

Here's everything you need to know if a dental filling popped out. 
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What to Do If You Feel Pain?

If you feel pain and your dentist can only see you in a few days, we recommend the following:

• Apply a compress with cold water or an ice pack on the cheek where you feel the pain to reduce the inflammation;
• Consider applying clove oil to the tooth and gums that cause pain;
• Try taking an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug to reduce the level of pain and inflammation;
• Apply a topical numbing cream to the tooth and gums to temporarily numb them. 
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Complications

If a dental filling is not replaced within a few days, then it can lead to more serious complications. 

Because food particles and bacteria can accumulate in that space created by the dental filling that has fallen, a tooth decay process is likely to begin. 

But, there's more to it. 

Dentin, the second protective layer of the tooth, is more sensitive than the outer one. This layer is also more likely to create tooth sensitivity and be affected by the decay process.

If this harmful process continues for a long time, the tooth may need other dental interventions in addition to a dental filling, such as:

• A crown
• A root canal
• An extraction

That's why it's important to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible after you notice a filling has. The longer you wait, the higher the chances your tooth will deteriorate. 
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What Can You Do to Prevent Dental Fillings from Falling Out? 

The main thing you can do to ensure the longevity of your dental fillings is to follow proper oral hygiene. 

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day;
• Floss every day;
• Don't forget to wash your tongue to remove the bacteria accumulated on it;
• Change your toothbrush once every 3-4 months. 
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Over to You

With the help of good oral hygiene, dental fillings can last for a long time. 

But, if you happen to have a popped-out dental filling, do not hesitate to visit the dentist as soon as possible to avoid future complications. Call Perkasie Dental Loft to schedule an appointment.