Signs your filling needs attention
- More tooth sensitivity
- Sharp or jagged edges
- Discomfort or pain
- Visible cracks or missing pieces
- Discoloration around the filling
If you notice any of these, see a dentist promptly.
What to do right away
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area and lower the risk of infection.
- Avoid chewing on that side until a dentist has examined the tooth.
- If the filling has fallen out completely, cover the exposed spot with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent irritation.
- Stay away from very hot, cold or sugary foods, since exposed tooth structure is more sensitive.
- Call us to schedule a visit as soon as possible.
Until then, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed on the label and by your healthcare provider.
How a dentist fixes it
We begin by examining the tooth and judging how serious the damage is. A small crack or chip can sometimes be repaired with composite resin. If the filling is badly damaged or gone, it usually needs to be replaced: we remove any remaining fragments, clean the area thoroughly to make sure no decay has formed underneath, and place a new filling to restore the tooth. Learn more about composite fillings.
A damaged filling should never be ignored. Call us at (781) 289-3331 to be seen.