Dental fillings are a common part of restorative dentistry. If you have a cavity or minor damage to a tooth, a filling can help restore its shape and function.
But what happens when a tooth filling popped out? It can be alarming and even a little painful. You might wonder what caused it, what you should do right away, and what your dentist will do to fix it.
This article covers the most common reasons why fillings come loose, what steps you should take immediately, what treatment options are available, and how you can help prevent it from happening again.
Why did my filling fall out? Common causes
Fillings don’t last forever. Here are some of the common reasons why a filling might come loose or fall out.
Decay around the filling
Tooth decay can occur around the edges of a filling, weakening the bond between the filling and the tooth. Often, this is due to poor oral hygiene.
Wear and tear
The act of chewing puts a lot of force on your teeth and fillings. Over time, that wear and tear can cause fillings to crack, chip, or come loose. Some fillings last 10 to 15 years, while others can last 30 years or more.
Improper bonding
If the filling wasn’t properly bonded to the tooth to begin with, it’s more likely to fall out. Moisture contamination during the filling placement can affect the bonding process.
Trauma to the tooth
A direct blow to your face or biting down on something hard can dislodge a filling. Bruxism, or nighttime teeth grinding, can also cause fillings to come loose.
How to tell if your filling is damaged
Sometimes, a filling will come loose and fall out completely. But other times, it might be cracked, chipped, or partially dislodged.
Here are some signs that your filling may be damaged:
- You see pieces of filling material. You might notice small bits of filling in your mouth while you’re eating.
- Your tooth is sensitive or painful. You might feel pain when you eat or drink hot, cold, or sweet things.
- You can see damage to the filling. You might notice a gap, crack, or hole in the tooth where the filling used to be.
- Chewing hurts. It may be painful to bite down on the affected tooth.
My filling fell out! What do I do?
So, your filling popped out. Here’s a quick rundown of what to do:
- Rinse. Use warm salt water to gently swish around your mouth. This helps clean the area and get rid of any loose bits.
- Pain relief. If it hurts, take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Call your dentist. You’ll want to schedule an appointment as soon as you can. Let them know it’s a lost filling so they can plan accordingly. It’s not usually an emergency, but you should get it taken care of quickly to avoid further problems.
- Protect the tooth. Try not to chew on that side of your mouth until you see the dentist.
- Watch what you eat. Stay away from hard, sticky, or chewy foods. These can damage the tooth or get stuck in the hole.
What to Expect at the Dentist: Treatment Options
If you have a filling that popped out, here’s what will likely happen when you see your dentist.
Examination and Diagnosis
First, the dentist will examine the tooth and the area around it to see how bad the damage is. They’ll probably take X-rays to check for decay or other problems that might be hiding beneath the surface.
Treatment Options
Depending on the examination and diagnosis, here are some options your dentist might suggest:
- Replacement Filling: In most cases, the dentist will simply replace the filling. They’ll clean the cavity and then put in a new filling material.
- Inlay or Onlay: If the damage is more extensive than a simple hole, the dentist might recommend an inlay or onlay. These are custom-made restorations that fit either inside (inlay) or on top of (onlay) the damaged part of the tooth.
- Crown: When there’s a lot of damage to the tooth, a crown might be needed. A crown covers the entire tooth with a strong, durable material, protecting it from further damage.
- Root Canal: If the decay has reached the pulp (the soft center) of the tooth, you might need a root canal. This involves removing the infected pulp and then sealing the tooth to prevent further infection.
Preventing Future Filling Failures: Oral Hygiene and Care
Once a filling pops out, it can be tempting to think you’re doomed to a life of dental drama. But the truth is, with a little proactive care, you can keep your fillings (and your teeth!) in tip-top shape.
Here’s how:
- Brush and floss regularly: This is the golden rule of oral hygiene for a reason. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can lead to decay.
- Get regular checkups: Your dentist is your best ally in the fight against filling failures. Regular cleanings and checkups (usually every six months) allow them to spot potential problems early.
- Watch what you eat: Sugary and acidic foods are like kryptonite to your teeth. Limit your intake to minimize the risk of decay.
- Be careful with hard or sticky foods: Hard candies, ice, and sticky caramels can put a lot of stress on your fillings. Approach these foods with caution.
- Protect against grinding: If you grind or clench your teeth, especially at night, talk to your dentist about a mouthguard. This can protect your fillings (and your teeth) from the damaging effects of grinding.
Closing Thoughts
If a filling pops out, it’s important to address the problem right away. Left untreated, a missing filling can lead to more serious complications.
The first thing you should do is contact your dentist. Then, protect the exposed tooth and keep up with your oral hygiene. You can rinse with salt water, brush gently, and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until you can get to the dentist.
Good dental care is the best way to keep your teeth healthy and prevent fillings from failing in the first place.