What is what to do when your filling falls out?

Okay, here's some information about what to do if your filling falls out, formatted in Markdown with relevant concepts as links:

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Your Filling Fell Out! Now What?

Losing a filling can be alarming, but it's usually not a dental emergency. Here's a breakdown of what to do:

1. Assess the Situation: First, take a look in the mirror. How big is the hole? Is there any sharp pain or sensitivity? Knowing this will help you describe the situation to your dentist.

2. Contact Your Dentist Immediately: This is the most important step. Schedule an appointment with your <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/dentist%20asap">dentist asap</a>. The sooner you get it addressed, the less likely you are to develop further complications.

3. Pain Relief (if needed): If you're experiencing pain, you can take over-the-counter <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/pain%20medication">pain medication</a> like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

4. Protect the Tooth:

   • Keep it clean: Gently brush the area around the affected tooth after meals to prevent food from getting stuck.
   • Temporary Filling (Optional): You can find temporary filling materials at most drugstores. These can provide some protection and reduce sensitivity, but they are not a substitute for a professional repair. Follow the product instructions carefully.
   • Avoid Chewing on That Side: Try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to prevent further damage to the exposed tooth structure.

5. Saltwater Rinse: Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) a few times a day. This can help keep the area clean and reduce inflammation. Think of it as <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/wound%20care">wound care</a>, but for your mouth.

6. Be Careful What You Eat: Avoid sticky, hard, or sugary foods that could get stuck in the hole or cause further damage.

Why is it important to see a dentist?

• Tooth Decay: A missing filling leaves the underlying tooth structure vulnerable to <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/tooth%20decay">tooth decay</a>.
• Sensitivity: The exposed dentin layer of the tooth can be very sensitive to temperature changes, sweets, and pressure.
• Tooth Shifting: Over time, other teeth can shift into the space left by the missing filling, affecting your bite.
• Fracture Risk: The tooth is now weakened and more prone to <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/tooth%20fracture">tooth fracture</a>.

In summary: Don't panic, contact your dentist, and take steps to protect the exposed tooth until you can get it professionally repaired.