Fillings are a way of repairing cavities in teeth. Children are prone to cavities as they are still learning how to brush and floss effectively, making fillings common restorative dentistry procedures for kids. Occasionally fillings come loose and even fall out of the tooth, resulting in sensitivity and sometimes pain.
If your child loses a filling, the best thing to do is keep calm and contact your dentist. A filling can be replaced fairly easily in most cases, but prompt treatment is essential to keep the tooth healthy and avoid infection.
Why Fillings Can Fall Out in Children
Fillings can fall out due to a variety of causes, such as:
- Chewing hard or sticky foods. Sometimes chewing particularly hard or sticky foods can cause a filling to come out of a tooth.
- Teeth grinding. Children who grind their teeth may cause fillings to loosen and fall out.
- Normal wear. The force of daily chewing can wear on the teeth, potentially loosening a filling.
- Natural shedding. Baby teeth that are ready to fall out will sometimes lose a filling as the roots wear down.
Signs Your Child’s Filling Has Fallen Out
It is not always obvious that your child has lost a filling. Look for the following signs and symptoms so you can seek prompt treatment:
- A visible hole in a tooth
- Sensitivity to cold, heat, or sugar
- Pain that does not subside
- Food that keeps getting stuck in the same place
If you notice any of the above, check your child’s mouth carefully with a flashlight and a mirror. When in doubt, contact your dentist.
What Parents Should Do Right Away
If you suspect your child has lost a filling, remain calm. This is a common occurrence, and although prompt treatment is needed, it would not be considered an emergency. Have your child rinse their mouth with lukewarm saltwater to dislodge any food that may be stuck in the open cavity. Advise them not to chew on that side of their mouth and offer over the counter pain medication if needed until you are able to get to the dentist.
Don’t wait to seek professional dental care in case of a lost filling, even if your child is not in pain. The tooth is susceptible to infection due to the missing filling, which could lead to more severe pain and potential loss of the tooth. This is especially important for permanent teeth, as you only get one set in your lifetime.
How a Pediatric Dentist Fixes a Lost Filling
The first step in treatment is to examine the tooth in search of any new decay that may have formed under or around the filling. Then the tooth is cleaned and the cavity is filled with a new composite resin filling. If it is a baby tooth that is loose and ready to come out, the tooth may be extracted or left alone to be shed naturally.
Preventing Future Filling Problems
The reduce the risk of future lost fillings, follow these tips:
- Prohibit hard or sticky foods when your child has fillings.
- Use good oral hygiene habits to keep the teeth healthy.
- Take your child to the dentist every 6 months for regular dental cleanings and checkups.
Next Steps to Protect Your Child’s Smile
Reach out to us at Andover Pediatric Dentistry for guidance and care if a child’s filling falls out. We are ready to provide support and prompt treatment to restore the health of the tooth and prevent complications associated with lost fillings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dental Fillings
Is it an emergency if my child’s filling falls out?
No, a lost filling is not an emergency, unless your child is in severe pain. However, it should be treated as soon as possible during regular office hours. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
Can my child eat normally without a filling?
It is best for your child to eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the affected side. If the tooth is sensitive, avoid hot or cold foods and beverages.
At Andover Pediatric Dentistry we understand that dental problems can be stressful, but we provide a calm and relaxed environment that helps put children and parents at ease. Through personalized treatment plans we provide the necessary care that each individual patient needs to restore and maintain their oral health. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.