How to Manage a lost filling or crown?

January 6, 2023

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Has your tooth filling fell out? Don’t reach for the tooth filling repair kit online and try to fix it yourself, it’s important you deal with the issue quickly and properly. As fillings are the number one tooth sensitivity treatment, if your filling or crown has fallen out it can mean you are left with sensitivity and an exposed tooth, so you may have noticed the loss of your filling or crown through sensitivity.

 

My filling has fallen out! What should I do?
If this is you, here is what you should do. Give your dentist a call immediately, if you’re in pain they will be able to book you in for an emergency dentist appointment as it could mean your nerve has been left exposed. If you are not experiencing any discomfort, book your appointment regardless.

How long does it take to replace a filling or dental crown?

The good news is redoing a filling can be a short job and give you some immediate relief in one appointment. You will have the choice of 2 dental filling materials, the first is a white composite material and the second is an amalgam filling, which is silver in appearance. While crowns are not instantaneous to replace, a temporary crown can be given to prevent the risk of infection or sensitivity while the final crown is created. Dental crowns are often used on more compromised teeth to protect them from further damage or deterioration, for this reason if you lose a crown it may cause more discomfort than the loss of a filling.

 

What will it cost to replace my filling or dental crown?

The dental filling cost will vary based on where you opt to have your treatment and what material is used for your filling. If you opt to have NHS treatment, often an amalgam filling material is used, fillings come under band 2 and therefore cost £62.50. If you opt to have your filling privately you can expect to pay anywhere from £120, but the material used is likely to be white composite that will be colour matched to your teeth for a discreet look. When seeking private treatment, there is no fixed dental filling cost so feel free to shop around.

As for dental crowns, again the dental crown cost can vary. Under NHS treatment you can expect to pay £282.80 under band 3 treatment. Privately, a dental crown costs from £350-£800 depending on whether you opt for a composite crown or porcelain crown.

 

How to Manage a Lost Filling or Crown – Quick and Effective Tips

Losing a dental filling or crown can be a worrisome experience, but knowing how to manage it can make a big difference in preserving your oral health. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes, immediate actions, and long-term solutions for dealing with a lost filling or crown.

1. Causes of a Lost Filling or Crown

Before we dive into the management tips, it’s essential to understand why dental fillings and crowns may become dislodged. The common causes include:

Decay or wear and tear that weakens the tooth structure.
Chewing on hard or sticky foods.
Trauma or injury to the mouth.
Poorly fitted or old dental restorations.
2. Immediate Actions

If you find yourself with a lost filling or crown, here are some immediate steps to take:

Don’t panic: Although it’s disconcerting, remain calm.
Retrieve the restoration: If possible, locate the lost filling or crown. This will be helpful during your dental visit.
Rinse your mouth: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to remove debris.
Over-the-counter pain relief: If you’re experiencing discomfort, consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
3. Temporary Home Remedies

While you should see a dentist as soon as possible, here are some temporary home remedies to manage the situation:

Dental cement: Dental cement, available in drugstores, can temporarily secure a lost crown. Follow the package instructions carefully.
Sugar-free gum: In some cases, sugar-free gum can be used to cover the exposed area, offering short-term protection.
4. Schedule an Emergency Dental Visit

It’s crucial to schedule an emergency dental appointment promptly. A dentist will assess the damage and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include:

Replacing the lost filling or crown.
Assessing the tooth for any underlying issues.
Exploring more permanent solutions if necessary.
5. Preventive Measures

To avoid future issues with dental fillings and crowns, consider the following preventive measures:

Practice good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing.
Visit your dentist for routine check-ups and maintenance.
Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that can damage dental restorations.
Conclusion

Losing a filling or crown can be concerning, but with the right knowledge and prompt action, you can effectively manage the situation. Always consult your dentist for professional guidance and to ensure your oral health remains in top condition.

Will my filling or crown be covered by my dental insurance?

You may have a dental plan like denplan, or private dental insurance through your employer. If you have dental insurance you’ll surely be asking, does dental insurance cover crowns or fillings? Many policies will cover this treatment especially if it’s deemed an emergency, however this will depend on your dental insurance policy type.

 

Do I have to visit a specialist dentist for this?

The good news is this treatment can be carried out at your general, family dentist as opposed to a specialist cosmetic dentist.

 

Will sensitivity in a tooth go away after a filling?

If you’ve just lost your filling or dental crown it’s likely you’ll be experiencing some sensitivity, the good news is that shortly after your tooth has been refilled or recovered with a dental crown the sensitivity should settle down in a matter of days at a maximum.

 

Hopefully this has settled many of the questions you may have around replacing a filling or crown. If you are looking for a dentist to support you with a filling, crown or any other general dentistry enquiry, you can select a dentist near you from our recommended dentists list! Just use the link below.

https://smilecircle.com/dentists

Here Are Some Relevant Pieces You Can Read About Dental Crowns

If you are interested in Dental Crown in Poole, Andover Hampshire & Southampton, Sandbanks UK, Contact us or Book an Appointment.