Dental fillings are common restorations used to repair teeth damaged by decay or minor fractures. They restore tooth function and appearance, preventing further deterioration. While durable, fillings can become loose or fall out. Understanding why this happens and what to do is important for oral health.
Why Fillings Become Dislodged
New decay forming around or beneath an existing filling is a frequent cause of dislodgement. Bacteria can penetrate tiny gaps between the filling and the tooth, leading to new cavities that compromise the filling’s support structure. Over time, all dental fillings experience wear and tear from daily chewing forces. This constant pressure can gradually weaken the filling material or the bond holding it in place, especially in areas of heavy occlusal load.
Sudden trauma, such as biting down on a hard object like ice or a nut, can exert excessive force on a filling, causing it to crack or dislodge. An uneven bite, where certain teeth bear more pressure than others, can also place undue stress on a filling. Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, is another significant factor as it generates substantial force that can fatigue both the tooth and the filling. This repetitive stress can lead to fractures in the filling material or the surrounding tooth structure, ultimately causing the filling to come loose.
Older filling materials, particularly amalgam, can expand and contract with temperature changes from hot and cold foods. This constant dimensional change can weaken the surrounding tooth enamel over many years, creating micro-fractures that eventually lead to the filling separating from the tooth.
In some instances, a filling may become dislodged due to poor initial bonding or placement. If the tooth surface was not adequately prepared or if moisture contaminated the bonding agent during the initial procedure, the filling may not have formed a strong, lasting adhesion.
What to Do If a Filling Falls Out
If a dental filling becomes dislodged, remain calm. If possible, retrieve the filling and keep it in a safe place, as your dentist might want to examine it. Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clear debris and reduce discomfort. Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage to the tooth or surrounding tissues.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can manage discomfort until you see a dentist. Temporary dental cement kits are available at most pharmacies to provide a short-term seal for the exposed tooth. Applying this material protects sensitive inner layers and alleviates sensitivity. Remember, this is only a temporary measure and does not replace professional dental care.
Contact your dentist as soon as possible. Prompt attention prevents complications like increased sensitivity, new decay, or tooth fracture. An exposed tooth can allow bacteria to enter the inner pulp, potentially causing infection or requiring more extensive treatments like a root canal.
Keeping Your Fillings Secure
Maintaining consistent oral hygiene practices is fundamental to prolonging the life of your dental fillings. Regular brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing helps remove plaque and food particles, preventing new decay from forming around the edges of existing fillings. This diligent cleaning reduces the risk of bacterial infiltration that could compromise the filling’s integrity.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also important for the longevity of your fillings. During these appointments, your dentist can detect early signs of wear, new decay, or fractures in existing fillings before they lead to dislodgement. Early detection allows for timely intervention, such as repairs or replacements, which can prevent unexpected filling loss.
Dietary considerations also help keep fillings secure. Avoid excessively hard foods like ice or hard candies, and very sticky foods such as caramels, as these can exert significant force or pull on the filling. For individuals who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism), addressing this habit is important. Your dentist may recommend a custom-fitted nightguard to protect teeth and fillings from excessive forces.
If your dentist identifies an old or compromised filling with signs of wear, cracking, or recurrent decay, proactive replacement can prevent future problems. Replacing a filling before it fails can save you from discomfort and more extensive dental work.