Dental fillings are utilized to fix teeth with cavities or damage. They restore the shape and functionality of the tooth. However, dental fillings in Santa Anna may sometimes become loose and fall off. And if it does happen to you, don’t worry! This is a simple guide for you regarding what to do once your filling falls out and how to treat your tooth until you reach a dentist.
1. Check The Tooth Carefully
After your filling comes loose, carefully examine the spot where the filling was. Using your tongue or a mirror, attempt to find out where the filling originally was. Don’t poke your tooth too much, though, because it could be sensitive. If you can see a hole, then that is where the filling originally was.
2. Keep The Area Clean
To help prevent any infection, keep your mouth clean. Rinse gently with warm saltwater: mix half a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water; swish for 30 seconds and spit. This helps to get the area clean and may reduce swelling as well.
3. Avoid Certain Foods Consumption
While waiting for your appointment, be careful what you eat. After losing a filling, avoid consuming sticky or hard food as much as possible, since they can make your tooth hurt more. Opt for soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or soup. Don’t chew on the side where you lost the filling.
4. Use Temporary Solutions
Sometimes, if the tooth is sensitive, you might want to use a temporary dental cement. You can find this in pharmacies. This cement can help protect the tooth until you can get to the dentist. Follow the instructions on the package carefully to apply it. Remember, this is not a permanent fix, so you still need to visit your dentist soon.
5. Call Your Dentist
Once you realize that your filling has fallen out, it’s very important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Tell them what happened, and they will schedule an appointment for you. Don’t wait too long, as this can lead to more problems like pain or infection.
6. Be Prepared for Your Visit
When you go to see the dentist, they will examine the tooth and decide what to do next. They might need to put in a new filling or adjust the tooth, depending on how much damage there is. It’s a simple procedure that can usually be done in one visit. Be sure to ask your dentist any questions you might have about the process or how you can take care of your teeth in the future.
7. Learn About Prevention
Once you have had your dental filling taken care of, it’s a good idea to learn how to prevent fillings from coming loose in the future. Here are some tips:
- Brush At least Twice a Day: Make sure to brush your teeth in the morning and before bedtime. Utilize fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen your teeth.
- Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t always reach.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups are important. Your dentist can catch any oral problems early before they become bigger issues.
- Limit Intake of Sugary Foods: Sugar can lead to cavities, so it’s a good idea to limit the intake of candy and sugary snacks.
By following these steps, you can take care of your tooth until you see your dentist and help prevent future problems. As a temporary measure, you can try using dental wax or over-the-counter pain relief to protect the affected area and reduce discomfort.
Get A Durable, Natural-Looking Dental Filling at My Dentist!
At My Dentist, we provide strong and natural-looking dental fillings to restore your teeth and protect them from further damage. Whether you have a cavity or a chipped tooth, our high-quality fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for a comfortable and long-lasting solution. Our experienced team of dentist in Santa Anna ensures a painless and smooth procedure.
Don’t wait to fix your tooth—book your appointment today at My Dentist!