Why Does a Tooth Filling Fall Out?

Tooth filling is a treatment applied by a dentist to repair a decayed or damaged tooth. However, sometimes a dental filling can unexpectedly fall out. It is important to learn about the causes of this situation and how to deal with a fallen filling in order to protect your dental health.

Fillings falling out is a common problem and can usually be easily corrected by a dentist. Therefore, contacting your dentist when you feel anxious would be the best option. Early intervention can help you solve your problem and prevent bigger problems.

Causes of Falling Tooth Filling

Dental filling loss is the separation or dislocation of a dental filling from the tooth. Tooth filling loss can be caused by various reasons. These reasons can be:

Poor Connection: If the connection between the filling and the tooth is insufficient or weak, it may fall out over time. Weakening of this connection makes it difficult to hold the filling in place.

Wear and Breakage: Fillings may wear or break over time. This can occur especially if hard or sticky foods are consumed excessively.

New Cavities: The development of new decay around the tooth can weaken the tooth substance under the filling and cause the filling to fall out.

Life Span of Filler: Filler materials also have a limited lifespan. As the material ages, its durability can decrease, which can lead to the filler falling out.

Application:
Chewing Pressure: The intense chewing pressure that some people apply to their teeth can cause the filling to wear and fall out faster.

Clenching and Grinding (Bruxism): Clenching or grinding habits can weaken tooth fillings and cause them to move out of place.

Dental Cracks: If there are cracks in the teeth, these cracks can weaken the areas where the filling is attached and cause the filling to fall out.

Mouth Hygiene Problems: When good oral hygiene is not practiced, tooth decay can accelerate and this can cause dental fillings to fall out more easily.

Hot and Cold Changes: Consistent consumption of hot and cold foods can cause dental fillings to expand and contract, which can cause the filling to wobble.

Symptoms of Falling Tooth Filling

Dental filling loss usually does not present itself with obvious symptoms, but in some cases the following symptoms may occur:

Cavity in the Tooth: You may notice a gap or opening in the tooth where the filling has fallen.

Pain or Sensitivity: There may be pain or sensitivity in the tooth due to the fallen filling, especially when hot or cold foods are consumed.

Food Impaction:
Sharp Edges: When a filling falls out, you may touch the sharp or rough edges of the tooth.

Change in Tooth Color: There may be changes in tooth color or stains in the area where the filling fell.

Treatment of Falling Tooth Filling

If a filling has fallen out, treatment should be carried out by a dentist. Treatment may vary depending on why the filling has fallen out and the damage to the tooth. Possible treatment options for a person with a fallen filling are as follows:

Replacing a Filling: If the fallen filling is clean and intact, the dentist can place a new filling in the same area. This is usually the most common treatment option. Your dentist will examine why the filling fell out and make an appropriate refill.

Crown or Bridge: If the tooth is severely damaged, the dentist may consider a crown or bridge. This procedure both protects the tooth and gives it an aesthetic appearance.

Canal Treatment: If the damage to the tooth has affected the pulp (nerve tissue) and is very severe, root canal treatment may be necessary. Your dentist will clean and fill the inside of the tooth to protect it.

Tooth Extraction: In rare cases, the damage to the tooth may be so extensive that the dentist recommends extraction. In this case, dentures or implants may be considered to replace the missing tooth.

What to do if a tooth filling falls out

If a filling has fallen out, it is important to consult a dentist immediately. Even if there is no immediate pain, a fallen filling can deprive your tooth of a protective barrier and make it vulnerable to new damage. Your dentist will make recommendations to protect your tooth until the appointment date. The area where the filling has fallen out should be kept especially clean and hygienic. You should try to use this area minimally when eating. You should also avoid hard or sticky foods.