A dental filling is a restorative material used to repair a tooth damaged by decay, restoring its function and shape. Fillings (amalgam, composite resin, or porcelain) are designed to withstand years of chewing force, but they are not permanent and can occasionally fall out unexpectedly. This leaves the tooth exposed, often causing sharp sensitivity and immediate concern. While the impulse to fix the problem quickly is understandable, using household products to reattach the filling carries serious risks.
Why Household Adhesives Are Dangerous
Using household adhesives, such as common superglue, to reattach a lost filling is highly discouraged by dental professionals and can lead to severe complications. Most household glues contain cyanoacrylate, an industrial chemical not formulated or purified for use within the human body. This substance is intended for bonding non-biological materials and is not biocompatible with the delicate tissues of the mouth.
The primary danger involves the toxicity and irritation caused by the adhesive’s components, which can include toxic additives. Placing these chemicals directly against the gum tissue and exposed tooth pulp can cause chemical burns, inflammation, and allergic reactions. Furthermore, the polymerization of cyanoacrylate is an exothermic reaction that releases heat. This heat can damage the pulp and nerves inside the tooth through the exposed dentin, leading to irreversible injury.
Household glues also fail to create a proper, sterile, and long-lasting seal. The filling will likely dislodge quickly, and the rough adhesive will trap oral bacteria. This creates an ideal environment for new or recurrent decay to accelerate deep within the tooth structure, complicating the eventual professional repair.
Immediate Care and Temporary Solutions
After a filling falls out, locate the missing material, if possible, and contact your dental office immediately to schedule an appointment. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in eight ounces of water) to clean the exposed cavity and reduce the bacterial load. This saline rinse offers a mild antiseptic effect and helps soothe any irritation.
To manage the sharp sensitivity that occurs when the underlying dentin is exposed, take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen according to package directions. Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the filling is missing to prevent further damage or irritation. Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing until you see the dentist.
For temporary protection, you can purchase dental wax or a temporary dental filling kit from most pharmacies. These kits contain a pliable dental cement designed to safely cover the exposed cavity, preventing food particles from lodging and reducing thermal sensitivity. Applying this temporary material creates a physical barrier to shield the tooth until a professional can place a permanent restoration.
Professional Dental Assessment and Repair Options
Once you arrive at the dental office, the professional assessment begins with a thorough examination and typically an X-ray of the affected tooth to evaluate the damage. The dentist must determine why the filling failed and if new decay has formed beneath the old restoration. The structural integrity of the remaining tooth material will be assessed to decide the most appropriate treatment plan.
The old filling is rarely reusable because its fit will be compromised, and the dentist must completely clean and sterilize the cavity before placing any new material. If the remaining tooth structure is sound and the area of decay is small, a new filling (composite resin or amalgam) will be placed. For more extensive damage, a larger, custom-made restoration, such as an inlay or onlay, may be necessary to support the tooth cusps.
If the decay has progressed significantly or a portion of the tooth wall is fractured, the tooth may require a full-coverage crown to restore its strength and function. In severe cases where decay has reached the nerve tissue, a root canal may be required before a final crown is placed. Seeking prompt professional care prevents a minor issue from escalating into a complex, costly procedure.