Dental fillings restore teeth affected by decay or damage, but sometimes fillings can loosen, break, or fall out. Understanding why this happens and how to protect your fillings is crucial for long-lasting dental health.
Common Reasons Fillings Fall Out
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Inadequate cavity shape: If the remaining tooth structure is weak after decay removal, the filling may not bond well and can chip or break.
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Moisture contamination: Saliva or blood can interfere with bonding. At Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris, we use rubber dams to isolate teeth and ensure secure fillings.
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Incorrect bite alignment: Overloading a filling can cause fractures. Proper bite adjustment ensures durability.
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Material choice: Different fillings suit different situations. Using high-quality, research-backed materials increases longevity.
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Wear and tear: Chewing hard foods, grinding teeth, or biting objects like pens or candy can stress fillings and cause them to fail.
How to Prevent Fillings from Falling Out
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Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss to remove plaque and food particles around your fillings.
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Avoid hard or sticky foods: Chewy candy, nuts, or hard snacks can dislodge or fracture fillings.
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Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth: Night guards protect fillings from clenching or grinding damage.
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Regular dental check-ups: Visiting Dr. Kaufman at Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris every six months allows early detection of wear, cracks, or loose fillings.
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Address dental decay early: Prompt treatment of new cavities prevents stress on existing fillings.
What to Do If a Filling Falls Out
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Remove it from your mouth to avoid swallowing or inhaling.
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Call our Glen Iris dental team immediately or book online Tooronga Family Dentistry on (03) 9822 7006 to schedule a replacement.
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Keep the area clean until your appointment by gently brushing around the exposed tooth.
Early action helps prevent decay, infection, and further damage to your tooth. Protect your dental investment with proper care and professional guidance.
📍 We proudly care for the smiles of the Glen Iris, Tooronga, Malvern and Hawthorn East communities.