Losing a dental filling can be an uncomfortable—and sometimes alarming—experience. While a lost filling isn’t always a dental emergency, it does require prompt attention to prevent further damage or infection. Here’s what to do if you lose a dental filling and how to protect your tooth until you can see your dentist.
Stay Calm and Inspect the Area
If you suddenly feel something hard in your mouth while eating, it could be your filling. The first step is to stay calm and carefully remove it from your mouth to avoid swallowing or choking on it.
Next, check the affected tooth in a mirror. You might notice a hole, rough edge, or increased sensitivity to air, pressure, or temperature. If the filling broke into pieces, keep them in a small container—your dentist may want to see them to determine what happened.
Rinse and Clean the Tooth Gently
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove food particles and reduce the risk of infection. Avoid using alcohol-based mouthwash, as it can irritate exposed nerves.
You can gently brush around the area with a soft toothbrush but be careful not to scrub too hard. The exposed tooth structure may be sensitive and more vulnerable to damage.
Protect the Tooth Temporarily
If you can’t see your dentist right away, you can use temporary dental filling material, available at most pharmacies. This soft, putty-like substance can help seal the cavity and protect the tooth from debris and bacteria.
Alternatively, if you don’t have access to dental cement, you can cover the tooth with a small piece of sugar-free gum or wax (such as orthodontic wax). Avoid using anything sticky or sugary, as it can make the problem worse.
These temporary fixes are not substitutes for professional care—they’re just a short-term way to protect your tooth until you can get proper treatment.
Manage Pain or Sensitivity
Without the filling, the inner layers of your tooth may be exposed, leading to sensitivity or mild pain. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed to ease discomfort.
Avoid eating on the affected side of your mouth and stay away from very hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or scrambled eggs are best until your filling is replaced.
Schedule a Dental Appointment as Soon as Possible
It’s important to call your dentist right away. Even if you’re not in pain, a missing filling leaves your tooth vulnerable to decay, cracks, and infection. Your dentist will examine the tooth, clean out any new decay, and determine whether a new filling, crown, or other restoration is needed.
Delaying treatment can lead to more serious issues, such as root canal infection or the need for extraction, so prompt care is key.
Losing a dental filling can be inconvenient, but it’s a common issue that’s easily fixed with the help of your dentist. The key is to protect the tooth, manage discomfort, and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. With quick action and proper care, your dentist can restore your tooth’s function and strength—helping you get back to smiling and eating comfortably again.
About the Practice
At Morgan Hill Dental Care, we understand dental emergencies can happen to anyone, and they always have a knack for happening at the wrong time. That’s why we’re always available with same-day and Saturday appointments to get you in quickly and ease your pain. You’ll enjoy our large, comfortable office with patient-friendly amenities, and we offer comprehensive, personalized care all under one roof – no referrals needed! If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t delay – make your appointment online or call our Morgan Hill office at (408) 778-4838.