What Does It Feel Like When A Filling Falls Out? 

More than 91% of the American adult population has had at least one cavity, and the most common treatment for a cavity is a super-strong dental restoration called a filling. However, no matter how tough a filling is, it can still come loose and fall out. But how do you know if you lost a filling and need to see a dentist in Edina? 

Pain & Sensitivity

While numerous things can contribute to tooth pain and sensitivity, one of the most common explanations for this type of discomfort is a lost filling. Hot or cold foods and drinks that cause zings of pain through your tooth could indicate that the protection of a filling is no longer there. If you’re ever experiencing tooth pain or hot-cold sensitivity, it usually means something isn’t right and that you should see your dentist as soon as possible. 

Feeling a Hole

Sometimes fillings fall out and you don’t even know it. This usually happens while eating, and you may not experience any pain but your tongue feels a sharp hole or indentation in your tooth. This is a key indicator that your filling is no longer there and that you need a replacement. 

Biting a Hard Crunch

As we’ve mentioned, losing a filling while eating is pretty common. If a filling falls out while you’re chewing you can actually bite down on it and feel a hard crunch. Now, tiny crunches happen while eating all sorts of food, so don’t panic. See if you can feel around for any holes. If you do, call your dentist in Edina. 

Food Gets Stuck

Food particles will always get stuck in between teeth and in the tiny crevices. But if you’re noticing a large amount of food buildup in an area that had a filling, you may have lost a filling without knowing it. 

Reduce Your Risk

Dental fillings are constructed of tough materials, but they aren’t invincible. They can weaken over time naturally or because of a bad bite, clenching, or grinding. However, many fillings fail due to the foods we eat. Chewy, sticky foods as well as hard, crunchy snacks such as popcorn and pretzels are some of the most common causes of loose or lost fillings. To reduce your risk of losing a filling, enjoy these types of foods in moderation, take good care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly, and wear your night guard if you’re prone to clenching or grinding while you sleep. 

If you think one of your fillings fell out, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Edina as soon as possible. Early treatment can help save your tooth and prevent other problems from occurring.  

About The Author

Dr. Heidi Brandenburg

Dr. Heidi Brandenburg is an expert in esthetic dentistry. She is also trained in implant dentistry and comprehensive care. To keep up with the advancements in the dentistry field, she joins several professional organizations and study clubs, collaborating with other dentists and specialists. Committed to giving back to the community, she volunteers her services to charitable organizations. Dr. Brandenburg used to train dentists in administering treatments to medically compromised patients while managing her private practice. She also worked at the dental facility of a center for the mentally ill.

Read The Full Bio