A dental filling is a material used by dentists to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or fracture, to restore its function and shape. After removing the decayed tooth material, the space is filled to prevent further decay by sealing off areas where bacteria could enter. While fillings are effective in repairing teeth and preventing additional damage, they are not permanent solutions and can indeed come loose or fall out over time. Knowing why this happens and what to do can help manage the situation.
Why Fillings Can Come Loose
Dental fillings can dislodge or fail for several reasons, often related to the forces they endure and changes within the tooth or material itself. One common factor is the natural wear and tear from daily chewing and biting, which gradually weakens the filling over time. The lifespan of a filling varies depending on its material; for example, amalgam fillings typically last 10 to 15 years, while composite resin fillings may last 5 to 10 years. Continuous pressure can cause the filling material to degrade or the bond between the filling and the tooth to weaken.
New decay forming around or underneath an existing filling is another significant cause of failure. When bacteria accumulate at the margins of the filling, they can produce acids that erode the tooth structure, creating new cavities. This compromises the integrity of the tooth supporting the filling, leading to its detachment. Decay weakens the tooth, making it vulnerable to fractures.
Physical trauma, such as biting down on hard foods or an accidental injury to the mouth, can also dislodge a filling. The sudden, excessive force can cause the filling to crack, break, or become entirely displaced from the cavity. Similarly, bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, exerts undue stress on teeth and existing restorations. These forces can lead to premature failure.
The filling material itself can experience failure due to its inherent properties or environmental factors. Corrosion of amalgam fillings or chipping of composite resin can compromise their structure. Additionally, improper placement during the initial procedure, though less common, can lead to premature failure if not adequately bonded or sealed, allowing bacteria to seep in and increasing decay risk.
Repeated changes in temperature from hot and cold foods and drinks can cause both the tooth structure and the filling material to expand and contract. Since dental materials and natural tooth tissue expand and contract at different rates, this creates stress that can break the seal, loosening the filling.
What to Do If a Filling Falls Out
Losing a dental filling is important to address with immediate steps to protect your tooth. If you can safely retrieve the lost filling, do so and keep it in a clean container to show your dentist, as it may provide useful information for treatment. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the exposed area and help reduce bacteria.
To protect the sensitive, exposed tooth and prevent irritation to your tongue or cheek, consider temporary measures. You can place a small piece of dental wax or sugar-free gum over the area. Over-the-counter temporary dental cement, available at pharmacies, can also be used to cover the exposed cavity. These temporary solutions provide a barrier until you can see a dental professional.
Contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment, even if you are not experiencing pain. Many dental offices can accommodate emergency patients. While waiting for your appointment, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the missing filling to prevent further damage or discomfort. Stick to soft foods and liquids to minimize pressure on the vulnerable tooth.
Delaying treatment for a lost filling carries several risks. The exposed tooth becomes more susceptible to bacterial invasion and further decay, potentially leading to increased sensitivity or infection. Untreated, this can result in more complex and costly procedures like a root canal or crown, or even tooth loss. Your dentist will assess the tooth to determine the cause of the filling loss and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include replacing the filling or, if damage is extensive, placing a crown.