{"id":36,"date":"2021-12-07T17:52:00","date_gmt":"2021-12-07T17:52:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mysouthridgedental.com\/blog\/?p=36"},"modified":"2022-01-20T17:57:22","modified_gmt":"2022-01-20T17:57:22","slug":"lost-dental-filling-6-steps-to-take","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mysouthridgedental.com\/blog\/2021\/12\/07\/lost-dental-filling-6-steps-to-take\/","title":{"rendered":"6 Things to Do If You Lose a Dental Filling"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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There are a variety of things that can make dental fillings come out. For example, biting down on hard candy or popcorn kernels may cause them to loosen. Whatever the reason is for your filling failing, it can be stressful and difficult to know what to do. If this ever happens to you, follow these six steps to get things under control and protect the tooth from further harm while you wait for your dental appointment to have it fixed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Step #1: Reach Out to Your Dentist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As soon as the filling comes out, call your dentist so they can walk you through the next steps. If they won\u2019t be able to see you for a while, ask for recommendations on how to protect the tooth in the meantime. If you\u2019re experiencing any pain or discomfort, let them know so they can recommend temporary fixes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step #2: Keep the Filling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re able to locate the lost dental filling, keep it somewhere safe until you can see your dentist. At your appointment, they will be able to determine if it can be reused or if they will need to have a new one made.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step #3: Gargle with Salt Water<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Add 1\/2 a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water. Gargling with this mixture will cleanse the damaged tooth and kill any bacteria that can lead to additional damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step #4: Chew with Caution<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Until you can have the tooth repaired by your dentist, chew your food on the other side of your mouth. This will lessen discomfort and help you avoid getting food lodged in the damaged tooth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step #5: Use a Temporary Fix<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dental wax can be put on the damaged tooth to create a smooth surface while you wait to see your dentist. Temporary filling material, which bonds to the enamel, has a natural, calming effect on irritated tooth nerves. If the damaged tooth is causing you any pain or discomfort, you can also try:<\/p>\n\n\n\n