What to do when you loose a filling. - Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

The fillings in your teeth protect them and restore their function, but sometimes they need to be maintained or replaced. The materials we used to restore your teeth, usually last for many years, but they are subjected to the same harsh environment as your natural teeth are. That is why some may wear down, chip, crack, or break while eating, clenching and grinding, in the same way your natural teeth do. The list of causes that lead to fillings coming out and teeth breaking is long, with chewy candy or pork crackling being just two examples. While you may not notice normal wear and tear, you should not ignore any “hard stones” in your mouth, a feeling of a new gap between your teeth or a sharp edge. All these are signs that a part of your tooth has come off and you need to contact us as soon as possible so we can examine what is broken and fix it.

The reason it is so important to have the issue checked, is that the gaps or holes in your tooth provide an easy access point for bacteria. Once bacteria start working their way into your tooth, it is only a matter of time till the nerve becomes damaged leading to pain or an abscess. In addition the cavities form hard-to-reach places, which lead to bleeding gums and gum disease.

A lost or cracked filling may not always pose a dental emergency, but it’s always important to make an appointment an have it examined by the dentist, to help you take the right decision to preserve your teeth and oral health. Please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Kaufman or to call today Tooronga Family Dentistry, phone number 98227006 and make an appointment.