Losing a filling can be a scary thing. But most times, it’s not a dental emergency and is a fairly easy fix. At my Staten Island dental office, we’d like to talk you through what to do if you lose a filling, what you can do to at home, and how to try to avoid losing one in the first place.
Call Us
If you lose a filling, the first and most important step you should take is to call my dental office in Staten Island as soon as you can. We’ll talk to you about how the filling was lost, if you’re experiencing any pain, or if there are any other problems, and we’ll get your appointment scheduled. At your visit, we’ll perform an exam that looks at the area the filling was and we’ll talk about your options. Whether we replace the old filling with a new one, or if we place a stronger restoration like a crown, we’ll work together to decide which option is best for you.
What You Can Do
While you’re waiting for your appointment, there are several things you can do to help with the discomfort that sometimes comes with losing a filling. First, try to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Not only will this be more comfortable if you have sensitivity, it can help to keep food particles out of the hole. After eating, it’s important that you rinse your mouth with warm salt water and brush the area gently. A space where there was once a filling is a great place for food and bacteria to collect which could lead to more damage. If you are experiencing a bit of sensitivity or pain, try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. Additionally, you can fill the space with a temporary filling material found at most drug stores. Just remember, temporary filling material is just that – temporary. Keeping your appointment with your Staten Island dentist is still very important.
Keep Your Fillings Strong
Some of the best ways to keep your fillings strong and intact are:
- Watch what you eat. Hard and sticky foods can contribute to damaged or lost fillings. It’s never a good feeling when you’re eating and accidentally bite down on a filling that was once in your tooth. Use caution when eating these types of foods.
- Treat your grinding. Not only can grinding your teeth cause damage to fillings, it can also lead to other dental problems. If you’re a grinder, it’s important that it be treated correctly and as soon as possible.
- Mind your clenching. Clenching places a lot of force on your teeth which can weaken fillings. Clenching is also something that should be treated sooner rather than later as, just like grinding, it can lead to other issues.
If you’ve lost or damaged a filling, don’t wait to call my dental office in Staten Island. We’ll make sure to discuss the best treatment option for you to get your smile back to it’s best self.
Serving patients in Staten Island, Tottenville, and Prince’s Bay.