When you have a chip or other small imperfection with a tooth, dental bonding can restore the appearance and function of the tooth. Dental bonding is similar to a tooth filling, except it repairs issues on the surface of your tooth where a filling “fills” in a hole left after removing a cavity.
Dental bonding uses a strong, tooth-colored resin. At first, it’s pliable so a dentist can reshape it. The dentist then uses UV light to harden it so it can withstand regular activities like chewing and speaking.
Dental bonding doesn’t last forever. The material can become dislodged while eating, grinding teeth, or due to injury. On average, tooth bonding lasts for around 3–10 years.
So, if your dental bonding material falls out, don’t panic! This happens sometimes. All you need to do is follow these steps recommended by the Broadway Dental of Pearland team.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
First, you’ll want to assess the tooth after the material falls out. Make sure to remove any excess bonding lightly with your finger so you don’t ingest it. If it won’t come loose with your finger, don’t try to pry it loose.
If the tooth and surrounding area look fine and don’t hurt, you probably don’t need to worry too much. You can make an appointment for the next couple of weeks to have the bonding replaced.
However, if the bonding reveals a chip that can irritate your tongue or gums, you may need to make an appointment more quickly or take additional steps.
Step 2: Keep Your Mouth Clean
To keep your mouth clean, you can try a gentle salt water wash with warm water and table salt. You’ll also want to keep up with your normal dental hygiene routine until you can get in for an appointment. Keep brushing and flossing as usual.
Step 3: Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Hard and sticky foods are always a risk, but they can further irritate or damage your tooth after dental bonding falls out. These foods can make a chip worse, making it more uncomfortable and more difficult to repair.
Be gentle on your teeth until your scheduled visit with Dr. Allouch at Broadway Dental of Pearland.
Step 4: Take Over-the-Counter Pain Medications
If the tooth is feeling tender or painful, you’ll want to call us to make sure there’s not a bigger problem. We can see about same-day appointments and give you some direction on caring for your tooth.
Generally, you can take OTC pain medications or use cold compresses on your face to soothe any discomfort.
Step 5: Use a Temporary Bonding Material
Sometimes when bonding material falls out it leaves behind a ragged tooth surface which can irritate and cut at the soft tissues in your mouth. If this happens, you can find temporary bonding material at most pharmacies. While these materials don’t stay for very long, they are a good option to try until your appointment.
Make an Appointment Today!
Losing tooth bonding material can be surprising, but it’s usually not a dental emergency. This is something that happens from time to time, especially if the material has been in your mouth for years.
Dr. Andrew Allouch can repair the tooth by replacing the bonding material. This is a quick process that usually doesn’t require any anesthesia. So, as soon as you notice an issue with your dental bonding, call our office to request an appointment. We will get you in as quickly as possible, especially if the tooth is bothering you.
Contact us today!
