A dislodged restoration is not an uncommon issue. However, if not treated promptly, it can negatively impact your oral health. If your filling happens to fall out, it’s important to visit a dentist to determine the cause and apply the most effective treatment to restore and protect your tooth.
Why did my filling fall out?
A tooth filling may break due to various reasons. Some common factors include:
- Low-Quality materials: There are many types of tooth filling materials. If low-quality or non-standard dental materials are used, the filling may easily break or fall out over time.
- Filling technique: A filling may fall out due to improper technique during the procedure. This can result from inadequate cleaning of the tooth, insufficient bonding material, or improper curing of the filling material. These issues can compromise the strength and durability of the filling.
- Improper oral hygiene: Fillings are used to restore cavities or damage caused by cracked or broken teeth. However, poor oral hygiene such as brushing too hard or frequently chewing on very hard foods can put stress on the filling and cause it to fall out.
- Eating hard or chewy foods: After getting a filling, frequently consuming hard, chewy, or sticky foods with strong chewing force can weaken the filling and cause it to fall out, leading to further complications.
- Facial trauma: External impact or injury to the face can damage the filled tooth, causing the filling to loosen or break off naturally due to the force applied.
What are the common risks when a tooth filling falls out?
A tooth filling plays a crucial role in restoring areas of decay or damage in a tooth. When the tooth filling fell out and exposes the cavity or pulp chamber to bacteria, it creates an open space that allows bacteria to enter easily. This can lead to infections and increase the risk of oral diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
Overall, a fallen dental filling is an abnormal condition that can negatively impact your oral health. It’s important to identify the cause promptly and apply the most effective solution to restore the tooth.
What to do when a dental filling falls out?
If your filling came loose and you can’t visit the dentist right away, you can follow some temporary measures to manage the situation, such as:
- Keep the dislodged filling: Retaining the broken filling can help your dentist identify the material and size, allowing for quicker and more accurate recommendations or replacement.
- Rinse with salt water: Salt has strong antibacterial properties, so rinsing with salt water after a filling falls out can help clean the area, prevent bacterial buildup, and reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, brush your teeth gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to protect the exposed tooth and maintain oral hygiene.
- Use dental wax: Use dental wax or temporary filling material to cover and protect the tooth area where the filling has fallen out, helping to shield it until you can visit the dentist for a proper examination.
- Avoid chewing too hard: Refrain from eating or chewing food on the side where the filling has fallen out, as this can cause damage to the tooth and pulp underneath. Minimizing pressure on the affected tooth helps prevent further injury.
How long can you wait if a filling falls out?
When a filling comes loose, it’s important to visit a dentist promptly. The exposed cavity can easily become a target for bacteria, increasing the risk of irritation, infection, and pain. Timely treatment helps prevent complications and protects your oral health.
Timely dental check-ups will help quickly address the issue of a broken or lost filling and ensure the most effective and safe treatment method is applied.
>>> Read more: Why does my tooth filling hurt after months?
How much does it cost to replace a filling?
In Vietnam, the cost of replacing a tooth filling typically ranges from $10 to $20, depending on the condition of the tooth and the dental clinic you choose. In contrast, the cost abroad is much higher, ranging from $100 to $500 depending on the location.
It’s clear that dental filling services in Vietnam offer high quality and long-lasting results at a much lower cost. In contrast, the same service abroad often comes with significantly higher prices and additional service-related fees.
Due to the significant cost difference in filling services, many international patients choose to return to Vietnam for aesthetic dental treatments. This allows them to combine travel, explore local culture and cuisine, while also receiving high-quality dental care at affordable and reasonable prices.
>>> Read more: How much do fillings cost in Vietnam?
Detailed information about fallen dental restoration has been thoroughly shared in this article. If you experience a lost or broken filling, don’t hesitate to visit Shark Dental for timely support at an affordable cost. If you need more information about aesthetic dentistry, the experienced dentists at Shark Dental are always ready to provide consultation and guidance, helping you gain knowledge and confidently choose the most suitable dental services for your needs.
