What Do I Do If My Old Filling Fails?

Getting work done on your teeth is crucial when you notice issues like trauma or decay. When that happens, restorative options like dental fillings and crowns protect your tooth from further damage. But fillings don’t always last forever and can promote decay if they are not replaced as soon as they are dislodged or broken.

If that happens, it's important that you know what to do to protect your teeth. 
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Why Do Fillings Fail?

The most common causes for failing dental fillings involve mechanical trauma, like chewing on hard foods or objects, grinding your teeth (bruxism), facial trauma, and others. 

In some cases, the tooth suffers from decay and loosens the filling. When this happens, the tissue around is affected enough that a dental intervention is mandatory to replace the filling and clean the area of the affected tissue. 

Another possible cause for fillings falling off is the weakening of the chemical bond holding the composite on the tooth. Finally, fillings can fail also if the dentist who did the procedure was not careful or skipped certain steps in the procedure. 

During your daily flossing and brushing routine, make sure to examine your teeth and contact a dentist every time you suspect something is wrong with your previous dental work. 
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What To Do If Your Filling Falls Off or Loosens Up?

The first step to take when you notice something is wrong with one of your fillings is to protect your tooth from infection or decay. If the filling came off and you managed to collect it, you can show it to the dentist in case they are able to reuse it (more so if it’s a dental crown). Call the office as soon as possible, or go to an emergency dental service provider if you are in pain or show signs of infection. 

How can you protect your tooth until you reach the office?

• Brush gently around that area, but keep your mouth and other teeth very clean.
  

• Avoid chewing on the side with the broken or missing filling.
  

• Use a saltwater solution to rinse your mouth several times a day, as it helps keep the bacteria under control. 
  

• If you are in pain or the area is very exposed, you can apply sterile gauze or dental wax to temporarily seal it and keep it safe.
  

These few steps can help you avoid possible complications and a longer recovery, but the most important part is being seen by a dentist as soon as possible. 
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Book an Appointment Today!

If you are having trouble with dental fillings, contact Forest Lake Smiles in Forest Lake, Minnesota. Dr. Jonathan Siverson and his friendly team will solve your problem quickly and hassle-free. Most fillings will be covered by insurance, so call your provider before visiting us and get your filling replaced.
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Contact us for more information or to schedule a check-up.