Losing a filling can be an annoying and inconvenient experience. The gap left behind may be uncomfortable and could potentially lead to additional problems if not addressed promptly. However, the urgency of getting a lost filling replaced depends on several factors.
What causes fillings to fall out?
There are a few potential causes for a filling falling out:
- Decay under or around the filling – If decay is left untreated under a filling, it can weaken the tooth and cause the filling to dislodge.
- Improperly placed filling – If a filling is not properly bonded to the tooth, it may not adhere well and can pop out easier.
- Trauma – A hard impact, as from chewing hard foods or grinding teeth, can cause a filling to come loose or fall out.
- Normal wear and tear – Over time, fillings can deteriorate and come free from the tooth.
It’s important to understand the cause of your lost filling, as it can indicate if there are any underlying problems that need to be addressed.
Risks of leaving a lost filling untreated
While a missing filling may seem like a minor issue, it’s important to have it replaced in a timely manner. Leaving a gap from a lost filling can lead to some risks:
- Tooth sensitivity – When a filling comes out, underlying dentin is exposed. This layer of the tooth is very sensitive and the air, heat, cold or pressure can cause pain and discomfort.
- Tooth decay – The gap left by the lost filling creates an entry point for bacteria. Bacteria can infect the exposed area of the tooth, leading to decay and possible dental infections.
- Damage to other teeth – The empty space left by the filling can shift teeth alignment. This can lead to tooth chipping or fractures in the area.
- Difficulty eating – Sensitive areas and uneven tooth surfaces caused by the lost filling can make chewing and eating uncomfortable.
Leaving the gap unfilled allows these risks to worsen over time. The longer treatment is delayed, the more complex and expensive it may become.
How quickly does a lost filling need to be replaced?
There is no definitive timeline for how long a missing filling can go untreated before it becomes an emergency. However, most dentists recommend replacing it as soon as possible:
- Within 1-2 days – Seeing the dentist within a couple days is ideal if the area is causing discomfort, sensitivity, or you notice signs of infection like swelling.
- Within a week or two – This timeframe is reasonable for a filling that fell out but is not actively causing symptoms. However, don’t delay much longer.
- Within a month – One month should be the maximum time you go before having the filling replaced. The risks to the tooth increase the longer you wait.
Prioritize a replacement based on your symptoms and schedule. If you’re in pain, call an emergency dentist right away. For a minor filling without discomfort, aim for within 7-14 days.
When a lost filling requires urgent care
In some cases, it is crucial to seek emergency dental treatment for a lost filling right away. Seek urgent care if you experience:
- Severe tooth pain
- Swelling around the tooth, gums, cheek, or jaw
- Tooth or gum abscess
- A broken natural tooth where the lost filling was
- Facial numbness or pain
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
These can be signs of a dental infection or abscess, fractured tooth, or other dental emergency. Ignoring symptoms like these can allow the problem to spread and become life-threatening.
Seeking same-day emergency dental care
If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, or other worrisome symptoms from a lost filling, you need to be seen right away. Here are some tips for seeking urgent dental care:
- Call your regular dentist – Even if they cannot see you immediately, they can call in prescriptions or recommend another provider for urgent treatment.
- Search emergency dentist listings – Many practices offer emergency walk-in hours or 24-hour emergency numbers.
- Go to an urgent care clinic – They can provide pain relief and antiobiotic treatment for dental infection until you can see a dentist.
- Visit a hospital ER – Hospital emergency rooms can treat dental pain, swelling, and infections when no dental provider is available.
The costs may be higher for after-hours emergency dental care. But severe dental symptoms should not wait – seek the urgent treatment you need.
What happens at an emergency dental visit?
At an emergency appointment for a lost filling that is causing symptoms, the dentist’s priority is addressing any infection, swelling, or extreme pain. Typical emergency care includes:
- Examination – The dentist will examine the tooth thoroughly and may take x-rays.
- Treating infection – Antibiotics or antibacterial rinses may be prescribed.
- Relieving pain – Topical numbing medication or local anesthetic can help ease any severe pain.
- Removing debris – Any decay or material left from the lost filling will be cleaned out.
- Temporary filling – A temporary filling may be placed to fill the gap until a permanent replacement can be done.
- Extraction – If the tooth is fractured or severely infected, pulling it may be necessary.
This urgent care can help manage infection and pain until the tooth can be properly restored later. Follow all medication and care instructions carefully after the visit.
Getting a permanent replacement filling
Once any emergency issues are resolved, it’s important to schedule a regular dental visit promptly to get the lost filling replaced permanently. Here’s what to expect:
- Numbing – The area will be numbed with local anesthetic before treatment.
- Tooth preparation – Damaged areas of the tooth are removed and the cavity is shaped for the new filling.
- Applying filling – The dentist inserts and sculpts the new permanent filling material.
- Polishing – Once placed, the filling is smoothed and polished.
Replacing the lost filling as soon as possible helps protect your tooth and prevent additional dental work. Follow good oral hygiene and brush and floss carefully around fillings. See your dentist regularly to ensure fillings remain intact.
Cost for replacing a lost filling
The cost to replace a lost filling depends on a few factors:
- Type of filling material – Composite resins cost more than amalgam fillings on average.
- Size of the filling – Large fillings are more expensive than small ones.
- Number of surfaces – The more tooth surfaces covered, the higher the fee.
- Dental office fees – Prices can vary between different dentists and regions.
- Dental insurance – What percentage is covered by your plan, if you have dental benefits.
As a general estimate, replacing a small to mid-size lost filling may cost between $150-$300 or more per tooth. Emergency care for issues like infections or fractures will also increase costs. Check with your dentist for their specific fees.
Tips for preventing lost fillings
While fillings can come out despite good oral care, there are ways to help prevent losing fillings:
- Practice careful brushing and flossing – Good hygiene keeps the area clean.
- Avoid very hard, sticky, or crunchy foods – Limit foods that could dislodge the filling.
- Wear a mouthguard if grinding – Clenching and grinding can stress and loosen fillings.
- Get regular dental cleanings – Tartar buildup can put pressure on fillings.
- Don’t chew ice, pens, nails, etc – This can crack fillings and cause damage.
- Get fillings replaced when worn – Older fillings are more likely to come out.
Being proactive helps, but sometimes fillings still come loose. Seek prompt care when they do, and avoid harder bites on the side with the missing filling until it is repaired.
When to see a dentist for a lost filling
In summary, here is guidance on when to seek dental care if you lose a filling:
| Situation | Recommended Timing |
|---|---|
| No pain or discomfort | Schedule a dental visit within a week or two |
| Mild to moderate tooth sensitivity | Aim to be seen within 1-2 days |
| Severe tooth pain | Contact an emergency dentist right away |
| Swelling, abscess, numbness | Seek immediate emergency dental care |
| Knocked-out natural tooth | Go to emergency room immediately |
Don’t delay too long in replacing a lost filling. The longer you wait, the higher the risks of additional dental problems. Seek emergency dental treatment right away if you have severe symptoms. With prompt care, a lost filling can usually be restored easily, protecting your oral health.