Loose or Missing Fillings

What to Do If a Filling Falls Out

A loose or missing filling can expose sensitive tooth structure and lead to further decay or infection. If your filling comes out:

• Save the filling if possible and bring it to your appointment
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the area clean
• Apply clove oil to the exposed tooth surface to help with pain
• Use dental cement or sugar-free gum as a temporary cover (available at most pharmacies)
• Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth
• Call your dentist as soon as possible to schedule a repair

Don't wait. An exposed cavity can worsen quickly and may require a more extensive (and expensive) treatment like a crown or root canal.

How Fillings Work

To treat a cavity, your dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and then "fills" the area where the decayed material was removed. Fillings are also used to repair cracked or broken teeth and teeth worn down from misuse like nail-biting or tooth grinding.

The Filling Process

First, the dentist uses a local anesthetic to numb the area. Then a drill, air abrasion instrument, or laser removes the decayed area. Your dentist will probe the area to confirm all decay has been removed, then clean the cavity of bacteria and debris.

If the decay is near the root, a liner made of glass ionomer, composite resin, or other material may be placed first to protect the nerve. The filling material is then applied, shaped, and polished.

For tooth-colored composite fillings, the material is applied in layers, with a special curing light hardening each layer. The dentist then shapes, trims, and polishes the final restoration.

Types of Filling Materials

Several dental filling materials are available today. The location and extent of the decay, cost, insurance coverage, and your dentist's recommendation help determine the best type for you.

Why Do Fillings Come Loose?

Fillings can become loose or fall out for several reasons:

• New decay developing around the filling
• Chewing hard foods or grinding your teeth
• Trauma or injury to the tooth
• The filling material wearing down over time
• Chemical reactions that break down the filling
• Saliva getting under the filling during placement

Preventing Filling Problems

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