If a Filling Falls Out
A lost filling leaves the inside of the tooth open, which is why it can suddenly feel sensitive to air, sweets, or temperature. Rinse gently with warm water, and keep the area clean as you eat and brush. To shield the spot until your visit, you can press a little sugar-free gum or an over-the-counter temporary dental cement, sold at most pharmacies, into the opening. Chew on the other side and avoid sticky foods for now.
If a Crown Comes Off
Hold onto the crown and keep it somewhere safe, because we can often clean and recement the same one. Gently rinse both the crown and the tooth. If it helps you stay comfortable, you can slip the crown back over the tooth using a dab of denture adhesive or even a little toothpaste to hold it temporarily. Please never use household super glue, which can damage the crown and the tooth and makes a clean repair harder for us.
When to Call Us
Give us a call at (540) 280-0179 as soon as you can, even if there is no pain. An exposed tooth is more prone to decay and fracture, so the sooner we restore it, the better. If you have throbbing pain, swelling, or strong sensitivity, let us know when you call so we can prioritize your visit here in Harrisonburg.
How We Restore It
At your visit, Dr. James Willis examines the tooth and the old restoration to find out why it came loose. Often we can clean and recement an intact crown the same day. If the crown is worn or the tooth underneath has decay, we treat the decay and place a fresh filling or a new crown that fits well and lasts. You will hear your options and the cost in plain language first. We are glad to care for patients across Rockingham County and the Shenandoah Valley.