Whether chewing gum can dislodge a dental filling is a common concern for people with restored teeth. While it may seem like a simple mechanical problem, the answer is nuanced. A securely placed dental restoration should withstand the forces of chewing gum, but the sticky material often reveals an underlying issue. This interaction highlights the importance of the bond between the filling and the tooth structure.
The Physics of Adhesion Failure
Chewing gum is rarely the sole cause of a filling falling out, but it can act as the final force exploiting an already weakened bond. This interaction involves the concepts of cohesion and adhesion. Cohesion is the internal strength of the gum, the force that makes it stick to itself, allowing for chewing and bubble blowing.
Adhesion is the force that chemically and mechanically binds the filling material to the tooth surface. When gum is chewed, the warm material flows into microscopic gaps around the edge of the filling, creating a mechanical interlock. If the adhesive bond has failed, the gum’s powerful cohesive force can pull the restoration out as it separates from the tooth. The gum essentially acts as a lever, demonstrating that the bond was already compromised, rather than causing the initial failure.
Predisposing Conditions for Filling Displacement
A filling that comes loose while chewing gum indicates a problem existed beforehand. The most frequent cause of bond failure is the development of new decay, known as secondary caries, which forms beneath the existing filling. This decay dissolves the underlying tooth structure, undermining the restoration’s support and breaking the seal.
The age and material of the restoration also play a role in displacement susceptibility. Amalgam (silver) fillings may last 10 to 15 years, while composite (tooth-colored) fillings often last 5 to 10 years. Over time, constant chewing pressure leads to wear and tear, fatiguing the material and the adhesive interface. Excessive biting forces from habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) also place extreme stress on the filling, creating cracks that weaken the overall structure.
What to Do If a Filling Comes Loose and How to Minimize Risk
If you discover a lost filling, contact your dental office immediately to schedule an appointment, even if you are not in pain. Until you can be seen, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to clean the exposed area and remove debris. If possible, retrieve the filling and keep it safe, as your dentist may examine it to determine the cause of failure.
To protect the sensitive, exposed tooth, temporary measures can be taken. These include covering the cavity with dental wax or a small piece of sugar-free gum pressed gently into the space. Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth and stick to soft foods to prevent further damage or sensitivity.
To minimize the risk of future dislodgement, be cautious with extremely sticky or hard foods, including some chewing gum and chewy candies, as they generate high pull-out forces. Regular dental checkups are the best preventative measure, allowing your dentist to monitor the integrity of existing fillings and detect secondary decay. If you grind your teeth, discussing a custom night guard can help reduce the destructive forces placed upon your restorations.