Lost tooth filling
What should I do if my filling falls out?
Sometimes a dental filling can fall out. If this happens, there’s no need to panic, but it’s essential to visit a dentist, as the issue won’t resolve itself.
Plausible causes of lost tooth filling
There are several reasons why a filling might fall out. Before listing the causes, it’s worth noting the difference between an amalgam filling and a tooth-colored filling in terms of adhesion.
An amalgam filling is mechanically secured in a specially prepared cavity. The undercut shape of the cavity holds the metal filling in place.
Specialists' advice
A régi tömések esetében gyakran előforduló jelenség azok elvesztése. Ha kiesett a fogtömés nem kell megijednie, viszont mindenképpen fontos, hogy időben felkeressen minket, hiszen a probléma halogatása, csak nagyobb bajhoz vezethet. Akkor is látogasson el hozzánk, ha nem fáj a fog, mert a tömés hiányában a fogunk védtelenné válik és könnyebben hajlamos törésre. Kérjen konzultációs időpontot elérhetőségeink egyikén és biztosan találunk megoldást problémájára!
Dr. Vinis Zoltán fogorvos
For light-cured, tooth-colored fillings, a special adhesive material (bond) is used, eliminating the need for an undercut cavity preparation (tooth filing).
Explaining these details is helpful to better understand the factors responsible for a filling becoming dislodged.
Causes of amalgam filling dislodgement
- The prepared cavity was not properly shaped
- The properly shaped cavity is damaged (e.g., a cusp breaks off), causing the originally undercut design to no longer securely hold the filling in place due to the damage
- The filling breaks and comes out of the tooth in pieces
- Due to decay, the surrounding tooth tissues soften and become mechanically unsuitable to hold the filling in place
Causes of light-curing filling loss
- The filling was not made with adequate quality (e.g., moisture entered the cavity)
- The adhesive of a properly made filling deteriorates (the bond strength may weaken over the years)
- The filling breaks and comes out of the tooth in pieces
- Due to decay, the surrounding tooth tissues soften and become mechanically unsuitable to hold the filling in place
Don't overlook the importance of a lost temporary filling alongside issues with permanent ones. Temporary dental fillings are more prone to damage or falling out, but even though they are designed for short-term use, always inform your dentist.
This is crucial because temporary fillings often seal teeth undergoing root canal treatment, and an exposed root canal can become infected by bacteria present in saliva.Don't overlook the importance of a lost temporary filling alongside issues with permanent ones. Temporary dental fillings are more prone to damage or falling out, but even though they are designed for short-term use, always inform your dentist.
This is crucial because temporary fillings often seal teeth undergoing root canal treatment, and an exposed root canal can become infected by bacteria present in saliva.
What does a bad dental filling look like?
It is essential to know what a poor dental filling looks like and to recognize warning signs that may indicate the filling could come loose in the future.
A filling is faulty if its edges are not merging properly, which can cause gum inflammation around it. Discoloration or decay near the filling is also a warning sign. Issues may arise if the filling shows signs of wear or if it was made too low.
Cracks in the filling or fractures in the cusps surrounding it can also signal potential problems.
Regular check-ups provide an ideal opportunity to detect these issues and replace the filling in a timely manner.
What is the lifespan of a dental filling?
This is a difficult question to answer, as the lifespan of a dental filling depends on several factors. Influencing factors include:
- Quality of execution
- The properties of the materials used
- The size of the cavity
- The magnitude of the chewing force
- Oral hygiene
- Whether the tooth has undergone root canal treatment
In general, it can be said that under optimal conditions, dental fillings can function well for 5-10 years or even decades.
Popular dental filling materials
Today, light-cured tooth-colored materials are used for filling teeth. This material is composite, a special type of plastic that hardens under the influence of light.
Traditional amalgam, as a dental material, has almost completely disappeared from daily use. The reason for this is that it does not meet patients' aesthetic expectations.
In some cases, in addition to light-cured tooth-colored materials, special cements (such as glass ionomer cement) may also be considered for filling purposes. The latter is most commonly used in pediatric dentistry.
Treatment of a dislodged dental filling
If your dental filling has fallen out, it is important to visit our clinic to find a long-term solution to your problem. The treatment of a dislodged filling depends on what we find in the tooth. We will remove any broken pieces of the filling and assess the condition of the remaining tooth structure.
If the cavity size is not too large after cleaning, a new dental filling can be placed. If there is extensive tooth structure loss after the filling has fallen out, an inlay filling or crown may be necessary. In cases of deep decay, a core buildup or even a root canal treatment may be required.
If you would like to get an accurate picture of the condition of your fillings or if your filling has fallen out, please schedule a consultation by calling 053 930 1323, and we will be happy to assist you! We look forward to welcoming you!
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Dislodged Dental Fillings
My temporary dental filling has fallen out, what should I do?
If the temporary filling has fallen out, be sure to inform your dentist. It is important to note that often only the surface layer is damaged, and the temporary filling may still serve its function.
My filling has fallen out, but my tooth doesn't hurt. Can I wait?
There is always a reason for a dislodged filling, so it is recommended to visit your dentist promptly so they can assess and address the issue. Delaying the treatment typically leads to more significant problems.
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