While it typically does not happen often, now and again, a filling may become loose. You may bite down just right with a food that is hard, or it may just be old and need to be replaced. There are a lot of reasons behind this happening. However, if this did happen to you, make sure you know what options you have before simply having the old filling plopped right back into place.Talk to Your Dentist If a Filling Comes Loose
When you notice a filling has come loose, grab the filling. The last thing you want to do is swallow it. Call your dentist right away and get seen as soon as you can arrange it. Bring the loose filling with you, unless your dentist specifically tells you otherwise.
Ask your dentist if the old filling is able to be reused. There are a few reasons they may say no. First, if the filling fell out because there was more decay, a new filling will have to be made. Second, if the filling fell out and still has mercury as part of the ingredients, then you want this filling replaced with something like a composite or glass option. Finally, if the filling is not the right shape anymore due to getting chewed on or the tooth cracking, then a new filling will have to be used.
A filling usually has a reason to fall out, but sometimes it just dislodges itself. No matter why your filling came out, just make sure you get a new one in the hole as soon as you can get to your dentist's office. The longer you leave that filling out, the more susceptible you are to pain, breakage of the tooth, tooth sensitivity, and debris getting stuck in the cavity.
Please contact our office if you have any questions about your loose filling!
