At Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX we receive phone calls from worried patients when a tooth filling fell out. We always recommend that patients go directly to the dental office.
Are you wondering what you should do if your tooth filling falls out? First thing to keep in mind is to relax and stay calm. Fillings can fall out and it’s not uncommon, although it can be quite surprising. If it happens while eating and you feel something hard that shouldn’t be there, just be sure not to accidentally swallow it whether it is a resin composite, gold filling, silver filling, or composite filling. Now that you’re past the scary part, the next step is simple: Call the Dentist.
We’re open 5 days a week and we are happy to assist with emergency filling replacements and even temporary fillings if it’s especially bad timing and you need a quick fix.
How Did My Filling Fall Out?
Fillings are put under a lot of pressure for years and over time they can loosen up and fall out on their own accord or because of tooth decay. Sometimes a filling can fall out from vigorous flossing, biting down too hard, plaque buildup, or bruxism.
It’s important to note that it’s common for the tooth to fall out while eating. You may feel the filling or the crown in your mouth when it happens. It’s not a sudden emergency, but it can be painful. The best thing to do is keep the crown and take it to our dental office in Keller, TX.
What Caused My Filling to Fall Out?
While dental fillings are supposed to last years and even decades, there are several reasons your dental filling fell out, including:
- Decay or cavities: If a tooth has decay or cavities, it can weaken the structure of the tooth, making it more susceptible to a filling falling out.
- Fractured or cracked tooth: A tooth that has been fractured or cracked can put pressure on a filling and cause it to fall out.
- Grinding or clenching: Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) can put excessive pressure on fillings, causing them to loosen or fall out.
- Age: Over time, fillings can become worn or loose, increasing the risk of them falling out.
- Improper care and maintenance: Not taking proper care of teeth, not visiting the dentist regularly, or not getting regular teeth cleaning can also increase the risk of fillings falling out.
What Should You Do When A Filling Falls Out?
If your filling falls out, don’t panic—but do act quickly. The most important first step is to make sure you remove it from your mouth to avoid accidentally biting down on it. Chewing on a loose filling can damage your surrounding teeth or restorations and may cause sharp pain.
You’re welcome to bring the filling with you to your dental appointment, but in most cases, we’ll replace it with a new, tooth-colored filling in a single visit. At Pickett Family Dental, Dr. Tyson Pickett, DDS FAGD and our caring team will also examine the tooth to identify why the filling came loose. Sometimes, decay under the filling or changes in your bite can weaken the restoration—so we’ll make sure there’s no underlying issue.
Before your appointment, be gentle with the area. Avoid sticky, chewy, or sugary foods, and rinse your mouth with warm salt water after eating to help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of irritation or infection.
If your filling has fallen out, don’t wait—schedule your appointment with your Keller TX dentist, Dr. Tyson Pickett, DDS FAGD and his amazing team at Pickett Family Dental. We have the friendliest dental staff in the area!
What To Expect At Your Dental Appointment
During your visit we’ll do a complete exam of your teeth, including an x-ray to see how healthy your teeth and gums are, and to make sure there’s no other tooth decay and related dental issues.
Next, if there’s no other dental issues, we’ll go over your filling options, including gold, amalgam (silver), ceramic, porcelain, and glass ionomer. Most of the time we can replace the filling on the same day so long as there’s no need for further repairs and your gums are in good condition.
Once your tooth has been properly filled and your new crown is placed, your tooth will be healthy and ready to last for years to come!
Prevent Your Fillings From Falling Out With Proper Dental Care
Keeping your fillings secure starts with maintaining strong daily oral hygiene habits and seeing your dentist regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day helps keep plaque and bacteria from compromising the structure around your filling. While fillings are designed to be durable, neglecting your dental routine or skipping cleanings can lead to decay forming under or around the restoration, weakening its hold.
Be mindful of the foods you eat as well. Chewing on hard candies, ice, or using your teeth as tools can crack or dislodge even the strongest fillings. Sticky foods, like caramel or gum, can also pull at dental work and loosen it over time. Attending your biannual checkups at Pickett Family Dental allows us to spot early signs of wear or damage before a filling fails. With proper care and professional oversight, your fillings can last for many years—keeping your smile healthy and your dental visits stress-free.
Filling Fell Out FAQ
Can a cracked filling be replaced?
Almost always! Sometimes we can re-use an old filling, but generally we replace it with a new filling with a variety of material options.
How much does it cost to replace a filling?
Dental filling costs vary depending on the damage, decay, filling material, etc. The longer you wait, the more likely you will need a root canal, which can be very expensive in comparison.
My filling fell out. How long can I wait to go to the Dentist?
If your filling fell out, it’s best to see your neighborly Keller Dentist immediately. At most, don’t wait longer than a weekend! In fact, contact us through our online form if you need to be seen for a filling and we’ll try to get you in ASAP.
Is a filling folling out an emergency?
Even though a filling falling out is bad, it’s not an emergency because there isn’t any dental trauma with bleeding. However, it is important to be seen as soon as possible and we will work you into our schedule as soon as you call to schedule an appointment or schedule online.
How long should my new filling last?
Fillings generally last for years, some 10 – 15 years and others as long as 30 years depending upon the material. Sooner or later they do need to be replaced. Ask us about which option is best for you!
Quick And Easy Filling Replacement at Pickett Family Dental
For a quick, natural looking filling replacement that you can trust to last for many years, visit the family dentist that people trust in Keller, TX. Dr. Pickett and his wonderful staff are available to help you when you need it most when your filling falls out. Call our dental office at (817) 431-5514 to schedule your appointment now!
