A dental filling is a material used by a dentist to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay, essentially patching the hole left by a cavity. These restorations are designed to withstand the significant forces of chewing, but they are not permanent and can sometimes come loose or fall out completely. Knowing how to identify a lost filling and what immediate steps to take is important for protecting the exposed tooth structure.
Immediate Signs You Have Lost a Filling
One of the most noticeable signs is a sudden, sharp increase in temperature sensitivity in the affected tooth. The dentin layer beneath the enamel becomes exposed when the filling is gone, making it highly reactive to hot or cold foods and drinks. This intense sensitivity can also extend to sweet foods or even a sudden rush of cold air across the tooth’s surface.
You may also feel a distinct hole or indentation in the tooth when you run your tongue over the area. The tongue is highly sensitive and can easily detect the rough, jagged edge of the remaining tooth structure where the smooth filling once sat. Another physical cue is finding that food particles consistently get trapped in the space previously occupied by the filling.
Sometimes, the lost filling may present as a piece of material in your mouth that you bite down on or spit out. While some people experience little to no pain, others may feel mild discomfort or sharp pain when biting down or chewing, because the exposed area is now vulnerable to pressure. If the lost filling leaves behind a dark or discolored area, it may be the weakened tooth structure or a sign of decay.
What to Do Right Away
The most important first step is to contact your dental office immediately to schedule an appointment, even if you are not experiencing pain. A lost filling leaves the vulnerable inner tooth structure exposed to bacteria and food debris, which can lead to rapid decay or infection. If you are in discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage the pain until you see the dentist.
You should gently clean the affected area by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water, which can help dislodge food particles and has mild antiseptic properties. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt into eight ounces of warm water and swish it gently. Avoid chewing food on the side of your mouth where the filling fell out to prevent further fracturing the exposed tooth.
If the exposed tooth has a sharp edge that is cutting your tongue or cheek, you can temporarily cover it with a piece of dental wax or sugar-free gum. Pharmacies often sell temporary dental filling material, which can be placed into the void to provide a temporary seal and reduce sensitivity. Any at-home measure is only a short-term solution and does not replace professional dental care.
Common Reasons Fillings Come Loose
Dental fillings are constantly subjected to pressure and wear, which is the most common reason they eventually fail. The constant force from chewing, particularly when biting down on hard or crunchy foods, can weaken the bond between the filling material and the tooth structure over time. This mechanical stress eventually causes the filling to fracture or pop out.
Another frequent cause is the development of secondary decay, which is new dental decay forming beneath or around the edges of the existing filling. As the new cavity grows, it undermines the tooth structure supporting the filling, causing the restoration to become dislodged. Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) exerts excessive forces, accelerating the wear and tear of the filling material.
Fillings can also fail due to trauma, such as a direct impact to the mouth or biting down on a very hard object. Over many years, the material itself can degrade, or the chemical bond that holds the filling to the tooth may weaken. Even with excellent oral hygiene, the average lifespan of a dental filling is limited, and they require replacement as they age.