It’s always good to be prepared. When disaster strikes it can be hard to think straight, so if you aren’t ready, you may make the wrong move. This is the case when it comes to dental emergencies. With that in mind, if you have a dental filling, you should know what to do if it comes loose. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make sure that you’re prepared.
Step 1: Retrieve the Filling
So let’s say you lose your dental filling. First, you should try not to do any further damage. You need to be careful not to accidentally swallow your filling or crush it by biting down on it.
Gently remove the filling from your mouth and place it in a sanitary container for safekeeping. Your dentist may be able to reattach it, so you should try and keep it in good condition.
Step 2: Call Your Dentist
As soon as the filling is secure, you should call your dentist and make an emergency appointment. The sooner you call them, the sooner your smile will be restored, which is important in a situation where time is key. Your dentist will also be able to advise you further on what to do until your appointment.
Step 3: Wait for Your Appointment
Now you just need patience. Many dentists offer same-day visits, so you only need to deal with the discomfort until then. Here are a few things you can try until your appointment:
- Gargle salt water. Mix ½ tsp of salt into a cup of warm water and rinse with it to disinfect the exposed area of your tooth.
- Gently brush your tooth to remove any food particles.
- Chew on the other side of your mouth.
- Try over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Use dental wax to cover the hole temporarily. Sugar-free gum will also work, in a pinch.
With these three steps, you should be prepared in case of a dental emergency. The most important thing to remember is not to panic. Even if you do lose a filling, your dentist will have you fixed up again in no time.
About the Author
Dr. Ryan Weldon has been a practicing dentist for over a decade and has worked hard to make sure every person who visits his office gets the level of dental care they deserve. He is an expert in his field who can offer a wide variety of treatments, so whatever your issue, he’s likely to be able to help. His office has same-day emergency appointments, and he can provide sedation dentistry services to patients who are nervous about their procedure. If you have any questions about how to take care of your fillings, Dr. Weldon can be reached via his website or by phone at (706) 232-2082.
