Dealing with a lost or damaged filling can be rather unsettling, particularly when you cannot see your dentist immediately. The discomfort and worry about further damage to your tooth can be quite overwhelming. Fortunately, there are practical measures you can take at home to manage the situation until you secure a proper appointment. This guide explores effective temporary dental filling solutions that can help protect your tooth and provide relief whilst you wait for professional care.
Understanding why dental fillings come loose or fall out
Dental fillings serve a crucial role in protecting teeth that have been compromised by decay, erosion, or injury. However, they are not always as permanent as one might hope. Over time, various factors can contribute to a filling becoming dislodged or falling out entirely. Understanding these causes can help you take better care of your dental work and recognise when intervention is necessary.
Common causes of filling displacement
One of the primary reasons fillings come loose is simply wear and tear. Temporary fillings, in particular, are intentionally less durable than their permanent counterparts. They are designed to last only a few weeks to a couple of months whilst you wait for a more robust solution. Temporary fillings may even be a different colour to make them easier for your dentist to identify and replace. The materials used are not as strong as those in permanent fillings, which means they are more susceptible to cracking or becoming dislodged.
Another common cause of filling displacement is poor oral hygiene. When brushing and flossing, it is essential to be gentle around temporary fillings to avoid accidentally knocking them out. Sticky or hard foods can also pose a risk, as they can tug at or crack the filling material. Tooth decay that continues to progress beneath a filling can weaken the bond between the tooth and the filling, eventually causing it to fall out. Acid erosion from certain foods and drinks can similarly compromise the integrity of the filling over time.
Injury to the mouth, whether from a knock or an accident, can also dislodge a filling. Even everyday activities like clenching or grinding your teeth can exert pressure on fillings and crowns, leading to their failure. In some cases, the filling may have been improperly placed or may not have adhered well to the tooth in the first place, which can result in premature displacement.
Signs your filling needs immediate attention
Recognising the signs that your filling has come loose or fallen out is vital for preventing further damage to your tooth. One of the most obvious indicators is a sudden increase in sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. This sensitivity occurs because the protective barrier provided by the filling is no longer in place, leaving the inner layers of your tooth exposed.
You may also notice a visible gap or hole in your tooth where the filling used to be. Sometimes, you might feel a rough or sharp edge with your tongue, or you might even find the filling itself in your mouth after eating. Pain or discomfort when chewing is another clear sign that something is amiss. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage and infection.
Ignoring a lost or damaged filling can lead to more serious complications, such as increased tooth decay, infection, or even the need for more extensive dental work like a root canal or crown. Temporary measures can help manage the situation, but they are not a substitute for professional care. Booking a follow-up appointment promptly is essential to ensure your tooth is properly protected and restored.
Practical Stopgap Measures to Manage a Missing Filling
When a filling falls out or a crown breaks, it can be quite distressing, especially if you cannot get to the dentist immediately. Thankfully, there are several practical stopgap measures you can take at home to protect your tooth and alleviate discomfort until you can receive professional treatment. These measures are not long-term solutions, but they can provide a valuable protective barrier for a short while.
Over-the-Counter Temporary Filling Materials Available in the UK
Chemists and pharmacies across the United Kingdom stock a variety of temporary dental filling products designed to help you manage dental emergencies. These products are typically made from special dental cement that sets when it becomes damp inside your mouth. Some require mixing before application, whilst others are ready to use straight out of the packet.
Several brands are widely available and well-regarded. The Nocavity Kit, for instance, has earned positive reviews and is priced at around twelve pounds ninety-five pence. Another option is the CLICADENT REPAIR kit, which costs approximately thirty-seven pounds fifty pence. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the FiTspi kit is available for about three pounds forty-five pence. Other kits on the market range between seven and fifteen pounds, offering a variety of choices to suit different needs and budgets.
These temporary filling materials are suitable for a range of dental issues, including lost fillings, broken crowns, painful cavities, and cracked teeth. They provide quick pain relief and are relatively easy to obtain and apply at home. However, it is crucial to remember that these products are not a substitute for professional dental care and should only be used for temporary purposes, ideally for no more than a week.
Some online chemists offer additional conveniences, such as free delivery on orders over a certain amount, often around fifty-nine pounds, and fast delivery options starting from approximately four pounds fifty-five pence. Certain chemists even provide discounts, such as ten per cent off your first order, making it easier to access these essential products when you need them most.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying a Makeshift Dental Filling at Home
Applying a temporary dental filling solution before dentist appointment can be straightforward if you follow the correct steps. Begin by gently brushing your teeth to remove any food particles or debris from the affected area. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water to ensure the tooth is clean. It is important to dry the area as much as possible, as this will help the filling material adhere properly. You can use a cotton wool pad or a clean tissue to gently dab the tooth and surrounding gums dry.
Next, take the temporary filling material and mould it into a small ball using your clean fingers. The amount you need will depend on the size of the cavity or gap in your tooth. Press the moulded material gently but firmly into the cavity, ensuring it fills the space completely. Use your finger or a clean implement to smooth the surface of the filling so that it is level with the rest of your tooth. Once the filling is in place, bite down gently to help shape it and ensure it fits comfortably with your bite.
After applying the filling, avoid eating or drinking for at least an hour to give the material time to set properly. For the next few days, try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to minimise pressure on the temporary filling. It is also wise to avoid sticky or hard foods, as these can dislodge the filling or cause it to crack. Whilst temporary fillings can provide relief and protection, they are not as strong as permanent fillings, so extra caution is necessary.
Good oral hygiene remains essential even with a temporary filling in place. Brush your teeth gently twice a day and floss carefully around the filled tooth to avoid dislodging the material. If you experience any persistent pain, swelling, or if the filling falls out again, contact your dentist immediately to arrange a follow-up appointment. Remember, these temporary measures are designed to tide you over until you can receive proper professional care, so do not delay in seeking a permanent solution.
