Can Fillings Fall Out? Yes!

Failing Fillings: What You Need to Know

Fillings are the best way to restore a tooth that has developed a cavity, but they don’t last forever. Older fillings can become loose or even fall out, and if this happens, the team at EaDo Family Dental wants you to be prepared. Here’s everything you need to know about failing fillings and what to do if and when they occur:

Can Fillings Fall Out?

Yes. In fact, this is one of the most common dental emergencies. It’s very common for patients to come into EaDo Family Dental due to a pulled-out filling or crown. There are a few different reasons that fillings can fall out.

The most common reason for fillings to fall out is wear & tear. The process of chewing puts a lot of pressure on the filling material and over time, it can weaken and pull away from the tooth slightly. Eventually, it may fall out or be pulled out when you’re chewing something, usually a very sticky food like caramel or taffy. 

Fillings can also fall out if they have failed and the surrounding tooth structure continues to decay. As a cavity forms around your filling, it will become loose, and will eventually fall out or be pulled out.

What To Do If a Filling Falls Out

Contact the team at EaDo Family Dental for an emergency appointment right away. A lost or pulled-out filling is a serious dental emergency and demands immediate treatment. This is because the tooth structure that was protected by your filling is now exposed to oral bacteria and the structure underneath a filling is weaker and less resistant to decay.

If you don’t get help for a pulled-out filling quickly, you could end up developing a cavity or your tooth could even become infected. Your newly-exposed enamel will also likely be quite tender, so getting immediate care from EaDo Family Dental helps you avoid any pain and discomfort.

Can Fillings Be Replaced?

Yes! It’s very easy to replace a pulled-out filling. First, Dr. Bianca Williams or Dr. John Ma will examine your tooth and look for any signs of additional decay. If they notice further decay, they may need to prepare your tooth by removing the decayed material before your new filling can be replaced.

Then, they will simply use a brand-new composite material to fill your tooth and replace your missing filling. Usually, this process takes less than an hour. Once your filling has been replaced, you can expect it to last 10-20 years or longer with proper care.

Get Help For A Pulled-Out Filling In Houston From EaDo Family Dental!

At EaDo Family Dental, we offer same-day dentistry to all of our patients in Houston. If you need treatment for a pulled-out or lost filling, don’t wait. Contact us at (713) 474-2334 to let us know that you’re coming in, or come to our office at 2240 Navigation Blvd, Suite 300, Houston, TX 77003.