My Child’s Filling Fell Out: What should I do?

My Child’s Filling Fell Out: What should I do?

April 19, 2017 / in childrens emergency dentist / by FWCD-Admin
Question 3

A filling is a wonderful restoration that can prevent the progression of a cavity. Tooth decay is a common health problem for children. In fact, cavities are considered an infectious disease. The bacteria responsible for dental caries are orally transmitted. Since cavities are widespread among children, fillings are a common treatment protocol for protecting teeth and preventing complications like infections associated with decay. If a filling falls out, however, it needs to be treated as soon as possible. We encourage you to call our practice to schedule an appointment with our children’s emergency dentist. The sooner you call, the sooner our team can make room for your child in our schedule for treatment. In most instances, a filling falling out is not a dire emergency but it should be treated quickly as the previously decayed (and weakened) structure of a tooth is exposed to oral bacteria and debris.
 

What to Do until Your Child’s Appointment

While you wait for your appointment, it is important to determine if your child is experiencing discomfort. Tooth pain sometimes accompanies a loose or dislodged filling because a sensitive, unprotected part of the tooth is exposed to temperate foods and drinks, bacteria, and other irritants. Moreover, decay could have formed near the filling and eventually underneath it. If your child is in pain, you can give them over-the-counter pain medication as directed. You can also apply temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) until you visit our practice to protect the tooth before treatment. Be sure that your child continues brushing and flossing. When brushing over the affected site, your child should be very gentle.
 

Responding to Dental Emergencies

The best thing you can do when it comes to responding to dental emergencies is keep our office’s contact information handy – especially if an accident strikes when you are not at home. We encourage all our patients to keep our business cards in their work desks and vehicles. You should also store our office number in your mobile phone. This way, you can reach us quickly if you have questions or require immediate treatment.

If you have questions or require treatment, call our office to reserve an appointment with our children’s emergency dentist today!