Gloss & Floss Answers · Emergency Dentistry
What should I do if a filling falls out?
Short answer
If a filling falls out, avoid chewing on that tooth, keep the area clean and book a dental visit. A lost filling can leave the tooth exposed to sensitivity, food trapping, decay or fracture. Even if the tooth does not hurt, the dentist should check why the filling came out and whether the tooth can be repaired with a new filling or needs another type of restoration.
Why a lost filling matters
A filling may fall out because of decay, leakage, a crack, wear, clenching, grinding or lack of remaining tooth support. The empty space may collect food and bacteria, increasing the risk of further damage.
If the tooth feels sharp, sensitive or painful, the situation should be assessed more quickly.
What to do before seeing the dentist
- Avoid chewing on the affected tooth
- Brush gently and keep the area clean
- Rinse after meals if food gets trapped
- Avoid very cold, hot or sweet foods if the tooth is sensitive
- Save the filling if you still have it
- Book a dental appointment for assessment
- Seek urgent care if pain, swelling or sharp edges are present
What happens at Gloss & Floss?
At Gloss & Floss Dental Care in Stockholm, the dentist checks the tooth, the old filling margins, possible decay, cracks and bite forces. X-rays may be useful if decay or deep damage is suspected.
If the tooth is strong enough, a new filling may be placed. If the tooth is weakened, a crown or other restoration may be more predictable. If the nerve is affected, root canal assessment may be needed.
When is it urgent?
- The tooth hurts or throbs
- The tooth is sensitive to cold, heat or sweets
- The edge is sharp and cuts your tongue or cheek
- The tooth cracked when the filling fell out
- You see swelling, pus or bad taste
- You cannot chew normally
Frequently asked questions
Can the old filling be put back?
Usually the tooth must first be examined and cleaned. The old filling is not simply glued back without understanding why it came out.
Does a lost filling always mean decay?
No. A filling can fall out because of fracture, wear or bite overload, but decay must be ruled out.
Can I wait if it does not hurt?
You should still book an assessment. Lack of pain does not guarantee that the tooth is protected or healthy.
Will I need a crown?
Only if the tooth is too weak for a predictable filling. The dentist will assess remaining tooth structure and bite forces.
Related answers
- Does a broken tooth need emergency dental care?
- Why does my tooth hurt when I bite?
- What symptoms can indicate a cracked tooth?
Related treatments
Disclaimer
This article provides general information from Gloss & Floss Dental Care in Stockholm. It does not replace an individual dental examination, X-ray assessment, diagnosis or treatment plan.
