A “silver tooth” typically refers to a dental amalgam filling, a common restorative material used to repair teeth affected by decay. This mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury, forms a strong and durable restoration. Amalgam fillings have been widely used in dentistry for over a century due to their effectiveness. Despite their longevity, these fillings can eventually dislodge or fall out. While alarming, dental professionals are well-equipped to manage this situation.
Immediate Steps After a Filling Falls Out
If a dental filling comes out, staying calm is important. Gently remove the dislodged filling from your mouth to prevent accidental swallowing. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the exposed tooth and remove debris, which can also provide comfort.
Avoid chewing on the affected side to protect the exposed tooth from further damage or sensitivity. Contact a dental professional as soon as possible for an examination and treatment. Acting promptly helps prevent additional complications.
Common Reasons Fillings Fail
Dental fillings can fail for several reasons. New decay around or underneath an existing filling is a frequent cause. This secondary decay weakens the supporting tooth material, causing the filling to loosen and fall out. The bond between the filling and the tooth can also degrade over time.
Constant wear from daily chewing and biting also contributes to failure. Forces exerted during eating can wear down the filling material or compromise its seal. Habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) or biting hard objects exert excessive pressure, leading to cracks or dislodgement. Older fillings are naturally more susceptible to failure due to their age and accumulated stress.
What to Expect and Potential Issues
After a filling falls out, the exposed tooth may become sensitive to various stimuli. You might experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, as well as to sweet foods and drinks, because the underlying dentin is no longer protected. The edges of the remaining tooth structure can feel sharp or rough to the tongue or cheek, potentially causing irritation.
The newly exposed cavity can also trap food particles, leading to discomfort and making it difficult to keep the area clean. This food impaction could contribute to further decay if not addressed. While swallowing a dislodged filling is generally harmless, as the material is inert and passes through the digestive system, the primary concern remains the unprotected tooth. Any pain or persistent discomfort signals the need for prompt dental attention to prevent more significant problems.
Dental Consultation and Treatment Options
Upon visiting the dentist, a thorough examination will assess the situation. The dentist will evaluate the reason for the filling’s failure, the extent of any tooth damage, and your overall oral health. This assessment helps determine the most appropriate treatment. X-rays may be taken to check for underlying decay or structural issues.
Several treatment options are available, depending on the tooth’s condition. If sufficient healthy tooth structure remains, a new filling can be placed, potentially using materials like composite resin or another amalgam filling. If a significant portion of the tooth is compromised or weakened, a dental crown might be necessary. A crown fully covers the tooth, providing strength and protection.
For larger cavities not extensive enough for a full crown, an inlay or onlay, which are custom-made restorations, may be suitable. In severe cases where the tooth is extensively damaged and beyond repair, extraction might be the only viable option. Prompt treatment is important to prevent further decay, infection, or the need for more complex procedures.