How long does it take for a temporary filling to fall out?
Temporary fillings are just that; they are not meant to last. They usually fall out, fracture, or wear out within one month. Be sure to keep your appointment to have your temporary filling replaced with a permanent one.
A temporary dental filling is a non-permanent solution to a variety of oral concerns and, because it's not designed to last forever, it's natural for it to fall out over time. A temporary tooth filling should last around 6-8 weeks, so what should you do if yours falls out prematurely?
A temporary filling should typically last around 6 to 8 weeks. But you should always be sure to not put too much pressure on it. If possible, eat on the other side of your mouth if you can. Temporary fillings are not designed to withstand too much force.
Temporary or semi-permanent fillings gradually break down over time. Because of the softer material, they can crack and fall out if not replaced. The exact life of a temporary filling can vary from person to person and the material used, but they can last as long as a few weeks to a few months.
A temporary filling is a non-permanent structure that's used to restore a damaged tooth. Since these fillings are temporary, they're not meant to last! So, how long does a temporary filling last? Temporary fillings may be needed for several weeks or more.
- A sudden pain in the tooth where the filling is present.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
- Food is getting stuck where the filling is located.
- You feel a crack or hole in your tooth.
- You feel a hard, small object in your mouth after chewing or biting down on something.
Occasionally, a chemical reaction will occur in the filling that causes it not to bond with your tooth, thus falling out in the days or weeks after being placed in your tooth. This is no fault of the dentist or you and is also easily fixable if you schedule an appointment.
While definitively saving the tooth may require a few different lengthy treatments, a dentist can remove decay and provide a temporary filling that same visit. This allows a tooth to be stabilized and desensitized so the patient can continue to function until a more definitive plan can be made.
Having a temporary filling placed is a fast and painless treatment and you are in and out of the clinic within 30-40 minutes. Your dentist will likely numb your tooth to alleviate any risk of pain or minor discomfort.
If a temporary filling or crown was placed, avoid eating sticky, chewy, or hard foods by chewing on the opposite side of your mouth…it is important that the cement has time to set properly. After scaling and root planing, avoid eating for at least two hours, and maintain a soft diet for the first 48-72 hours.
What happens if you swallow a temporary filling?
Occasionally the filling or crown may be swallowed. Swallowing the piece of dental filling is not dangerous, as it should pass safely through your body. Obviously, it will be unusable by the time it has passed through so please do not try and retrieve it! More concerning, however is breathing it in, or inhaling it.
Temporary fillings can be soft and hard materials. A soft temporary filling lasts a short while. A hard temporary filling can last up to 3-6 months (suitable while you're away for a long time). In some cases, the cost of a temporary filling is included in your treatment.
After getting a temporary filling, you may be somewhat concerned about brushing your teeth, but it's okay to brush the filled tooth the same way you brush your other teeth. To be safe, use a soft or extra soft bristle toothbrush and brush gently, but carefully. Flossing around the newly filled tooth can be tricky.
While definitively saving the tooth may require a few different lengthy treatments, a dentist can remove decay and provide a temporary filling that same visit. This allows a tooth to be stabilized and desensitized so the patient can continue to function until a more definitive plan can be made.
Having a temporary filling placed is a fast and painless treatment and you are in and out of the clinic within 30-40 minutes. Your dentist will likely numb your tooth to alleviate any risk of pain or minor discomfort.