If you have a dental filling, it’s essential to know the signs that it may have fallen out or needs to be replaced. Here are six signs you should watch for:
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
If you start to feel sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures in your mouth, it could be a sign that your filling has fallen out. This is because the filling can no longer protect your tooth from temperature changes. When the filling is in place, it helps to protect the tooth from temperature extremes.
Sharp Pain When Biting or Chewing
If you experience sharp pain when biting or chewing, it could be a sign that your filling has fallen out. This is because the filling helps to support the tooth and keep it stable. Without the filling, the tooth can become loose and painful. The pain may be most noticeable when you eat or drink hot or cold beverages.
Visible Gap or Hole in Your Tooth
If you can see a gap or hole in your tooth where the filling used to be, the filling has likely come out. This is especially true if you can see tooth decay in the exposed area. Sometimes, the filling may only be partially out, so you may only see a small hole.
Food Stuck in the Gap or Hole
If you have a filling that is no longer in place, getting it fixed as soon as possible is crucial. Not only can food getting stuck in the gap be annoying, but it can also lead to decay and other problems. When a filling falls out, bacteria can enter the tooth and cause decay. If the decay is left untreated, it can eventually lead to an abscess which is a serious infection that can damage the bone and surrounding tissue. If you have a filling that has fallen out, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Bad Taste in Your Mouth
If you’ve been noticing an unpleasant taste in your mouth, it could be a sign that your filling has come loose. This is because the filling no longer provides a barrier between your tooth and your saliva. Food and bacteria can be trapped under the loose filling. If you notice a bad taste in your mouth, you should see your dentist as soon as possible.
You Feel a Sharp Edge on Your Tooth
If you run your tongue over your teeth and feel a sharp edge, it could signify that your filling has fallen out. This is especially true if the sharp edge is new and you don’t remember it being there before.
What Could Cause Your Filling to Get Dislodged?
A few different things could cause your filling to become dislodged. It could be that the filling was not placed correctly in the first place or that it has become loose over time. It is also possible that you have had an injury to the tooth that has caused the filling to become dislodged.
If you think your filling may be dislodged, it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. If the filling is not correctly replaced, it could further damage the tooth.
Conclusion
See a dentist as soon as possible if you think you have lost or missing dental fillings. The sooner you are seen by an expert, the better the chances are that the tooth can be saved. Many options are available to replace a tooth filling, so be sure to discuss your options with your dentist.
Northampton Dental Specialists Group, previously known as Clayton and Canby Dental, offers an array of services, including dental fillings and cosmetic dentistry in Northampton. Schedule your appointment with us today!
