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Hoover, AL, Dentist Explains What To Do When You Lose A Tooth Filling

hoover al dentist dental fillingWhen a tooth filling falls out, it leaves behind an open hole in your tooth that can be both uncomfortable and nerve wracking. You don’t need to panic, though, because losing a dental filling is actually one of the more common dental emergencies. That means your dentist in Hoover, AL, should be able to get you fixed up and back to your regular routine in no time.

Our 5-Star-Rated Hoover, AL, Dentist Answers Your Dental Filling Questions

What Is A Dental Filling?

A tooth filling is exactly what the name sounds like: a special material that fills in a hole in your tooth. When you have tooth decay, your Hoover, AL, dentist cleans out the damaged part of your tooth before it can spread to the other, healthy parts of your tooth. Then your dentist fills the spot where the decay used to be with your dental filling. There are a range of options for filling material, including gold, porcelain, the old-school silver amalgam (made up of mercury mixed with other materials) that so many of us have in the backs of our mouths, and the increasingly popular tooth-colored composite resin.

What Can Make A Tooth Filling Fall Out?

The material that makes up a tooth filling is strong, but that doesn’t mean it lasts forever. Dental fillings can get worn down from all the chewing you do over the years, and so they eventually need to be replaced. Usually, your dentist in Hoover, AL, will identify worn fillings during your regular dental cleaning and exam, so the filling gets replaced before it gets a chance to fall out. Nevertheless, there are a variety of factors that can cause fillings to fall out unexpectedly, for example:

My Filling Fell Out! What Do I Do?

As we’ve already said, don’t panic! Wash your hands, and then carefully check your mouth to remove the missing filling, as well as any pieces of broken tooth that may be there. Then call your Hoover, AL, dental office right away. Tell the receptionist that you’ve lost a filling and need an emergency appointment. Most dentists keep emergency time slots available in their schedules for cases like this, because they know that you shouldn’t leave the sensitive underlying area of your tooth exposed. It’s important that you get your missing filling taken care of by a professional as quickly as possible.

If you have to wait before your dentist can see you, then there are a few steps you can take to avoid infection and reduce your discomfort.

  1. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth that has lost the filling.
  2. Brush the exposed tooth very gently to avoid unnecessary irritation.
  3. Rinse your mouth with salt water, which will both help to clean the area and also reduce pain.
  4. If the tooth is especially uncomfortable, you can find commercial temporary fillings at most drug stores. These are typically made of zinc oxide and can help to cover the exposed tooth until you can see your dentist. Never use an over-the-counter solution as a permanent remedy, though! These types of fillings are not designed to last, and there may still be new decay on your tooth that your dentist will need to treat.

Our Hoover, AL, Dental Office Is Here For You!

Lost dental fillings happen all the time. Unfortunately for some of us, they can happen at the least opportune moments. But there’s no need to panic. Just keep the area clean and, most importantly, see your dentist as soon as possible to prevent infection and discomfort. If your Hoover dentist can’t provide you with a timely emergency appointment, or if you don’t currently have a dentist, then Perrigo Dental Care will be happy to fix your lost filling and get your smile back.

This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our Hoover, AL, dental office would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to this topic. Call 205-822-7822 or click here to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly, expert dentists today.

5-Star-Rated Hoover Dentists & Cosmetic Dentists
"Dr. Perrigo's office is wonderful. Their staff is so kind and thorough. They were absolutely wonderful to my elderly grandmother, and so attentive to her needs. I cannot recommend them enough. They even have early morning and Saturday hours."Bonnie H.
"This is by far the best dental group I have ever had. They make you feel like part of the family the minute you walk in the door. Dr. Perrigo is always available if you have a problem other than the usual dental check up. I must say something about my wonderful hygienist Christy. She is the absolutely best. We do more laughing than anything when I have my visits. I just truly love this group. Thanks for all you do."Faye W.
"Luke is a great dentist and his staff is very friendly. Highly recommended."Matt D.
"Outstanding service! Fresh and clean! Love this place. A family atmosphere!"Chad B.
"Very pleasant, efficient and professional staff who showed a sincere interest in me, both history and current problems. Additionally they were gentle during both cleaning and examination."Kathi W.
"Went in today for my bi-annual cleaning and check-up. I highly recommend them. I have been going to them for over 30 years."James S.
"Dr. Perrigo took time to explain options and did a wonderful job. Staff are friendly and kind. Highly recommended."John M.
*The reviews listed are from actual patients of Perrigo Dental Care. Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.
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2038 Patton Chapel
Rd. Hoover, AL 35216
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The 5-star-rated cosmetic dentists and family dentists in Hoover, AL, of Perrigo Dental Care offer the most advanced dental care and orthodontic care for children and adults. Our dental care options included family dental care, teeth cleanings, gum disease treatment, wisdom teeth extractions, TMJ treatment, treatment for headaches, sleep apnea treatment, pain-free dental care, sedation dentistry, dental care emergencies, teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, dental bridges, dental implants, dental crowns, dental fillings, dentures, full mouth reconstruction, Invisalign and FastBraces. We can help fix your cracked tooth, chipped tooth or replace missing teeth. Call our conveniently located Hoover dental office to schedule your appointment with our dental implant dentists, cosmetic dentists and family dentists in Hoover, AL, at 205-822-7822.

Come experience Perrigo Dental Care! You will see for yourself that we offer 5-star-rated dental care and orthodontic care in Hoover, AL, Vestavia Hills, AL, Mountain Brook, AL, Homewood, AL, Pelham, AL, Alabaster, AL, Helena, AL, Calera, AL, McCalla, AL, Trussville, AL, Springville, AL, Irondale, AL, Birmingham Red Mountain area, AL, Chelsea, AL, Meadowbrook, AL, Wine Ridge, AL, Indian Springs, AL, Leeds, AL, Moody, AL and Clay-Chalkville, AL.

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