Losing a filling can be a surprisingly noticeable event, and the appearance will vary depending on the size and location of the filling, as well as the overall health of your tooth. This guide will walk you through what you might expect to see, and what to do if you experience this.
What are the Common Signs of a Lost Filling?
The most obvious sign is a hole in your tooth. This hole will be where the filling used to be, and its size will depend on the size of the original filling. You might notice a significant difference in the tooth's surface texture – smooth and flat where the filling was, now rough and potentially uneven.
Sometimes, you might not immediately see a hole. Instead, you might experience:
- Sharp pain when biting or chewing: This is a key indicator that the filling has fallen out, exposing sensitive dentin or even the pulp (the nerve of the tooth).
- Sensitivity to hot or cold: Similar to the biting pain, this sensitivity signals that the tooth is now unprotected.
- A noticeable gap or space between your teeth: If the filling was large, you may be able to visibly see the missing portion.
- Food getting stuck in the area: This is particularly common if the filling was located between teeth.
- A change in the tooth's appearance: The affected tooth might look darker or discolored compared to the adjacent teeth. This is because the dentin is exposed to air and staining.
What if I Can't See a Hole, But Suspect a Filling is Missing?
Even if you can't visually locate a hole, persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, or food impaction in a specific area should raise suspicion of a lost filling. Don't ignore these symptoms!
How Big is the Hole When a Filling Falls Out?
The size of the hole varies greatly. It can be:
- Small: A tiny cavity, barely noticeable.
- Medium: Clearly visible as a defect in the tooth's surface.
- Large: A significant portion of the tooth structure may be missing, potentially extending to the tooth's inner layers.
What Should I Do If a Filling Falls Out?
This is crucial! Don't delay seeking professional help:
- Rinse your mouth: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area.
- Try to locate the lost filling (if possible): While not always necessary, it might be helpful for your dentist. Keep it in a clean, dry container.
- Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth: This prevents further damage to the exposed tooth.
- Contact your dentist immediately: They will assess the damage and create a plan for repair or replacement. The sooner you address this, the better the chances of preserving your tooth.
Can I Put the Filling Back In Myself?
No, do not attempt to reinsert the filling yourself. This could cause further damage to the tooth or lead to infection. Your dentist has the expertise and tools necessary for a proper and safe repair.
How Long Can I Wait Before Seeing a Dentist?
The sooner you seek professional dental care, the better. Delaying treatment can lead to increased sensitivity, infection, more extensive damage, and potentially the need for more complex and costly procedures like root canals or extractions.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not substitute professional dental advice. Always consult your dentist for diagnosis and treatment of any dental issue.
