On the Mount Rushmore of dental emergencies, a broken or lost filling probably won’t make the cut, but sometimes it still warrants being an emergency. Regardless, you need to attempt to have it treated as soon as possible to prevent further problems.
If you lost a dental filling, here are seven steps you should take to make sure your tooth remains in stable condition while you are waiting to see your emergency dentist in Bettendorf.
Step 1: Notify Your Dentist
Let your dentist know as soon as possible that you need an appointment to have your tooth repaired. Be sure to mention if you have any pain. If they cannot see you immediately, ask what you can do to protect the tooth in the meantime.
Step 2: Store Your Filling in a Safe Place
Definitely do not dispose of the filling. Take it with you to the dentist so they can determine if it can be reused. If not, they will begin the process of making you a new one.
Step 3: Use Salt Water to Gargle
Mix warm water with half a teaspoon of salt and gargle to keep the damaged tooth clean and remove any debris that may be stuck on it. Gargling is also beneficial to help kill bacteria and stop it from damaging your vulnerable tooth.
Step 4: Brush with Caution
Take care of the tooth as part of your daily oral health routine. Brush it gently so that you don’t cause further harm while it is vulnerable.
Step 5: Use Teeth on the Other Side of Your Mouth to Chew
Do your best to chew food on the other side of your mouth. That will hopefully prevent discomfort and food potentially getting lodged in or beside the tooth.
Step 6: Provide Temporary Protection for the Tooth
Use dental wax or another temporary filling material to safeguard the tooth until you can have it treated. When you call the dentist to report the lost filling, ask if they recommend something in particular for you to use to protect the tooth.
Step 7: Don’t Allow Pain to Bring You Down
If you are hurting after losing the filling, use an over-the-counter pain reliever to feel better until you can see your dentist. Follow the dosage instructions so you don’t take it too often. If needed, you can also use an ice pack or cold compress for 15 minutes at a time to lessen the swelling. One more option to consider is an oral numbing gel with benzocaine.
Dental fillings are generally durable and last about 15 years, but you have to expect the unexpected in life. If you’re ever faced with a lost filling, don’t forget to call your emergency dentist in Bettendorf first thing. Then, stick with these steps to protect your tooth and keep your pain in check.
About the Author
Dr. Joshua Pogue proudly serves patients in the Bettendorf area by offering compassionate, comfortable treatment with help from a dedicated staff and the latest in modern dental technology. If you’ve struggled with dental anxiety, Dr. Pogue hopes you’ll give him the opportunity to help you get past it and receive the treatment you need. He received his dental doctorate at Southern Illinois University and is a member of the American Dental Association. If you ever need an emergency dentist, Dr. Pogue will be ready. His team will walk you through first-aid over the phone and can schedule you for an appointment that day. For any of your oral health needs, visit his website or call (563) 332-7734.