A dental filling might be small, but it plays a big role in protecting your tooth from further damage. Whether it’s made of composite resin, porcelain, gold, or amalgam, a filling restores the integrity of a tooth that’s been affected by decay or minor fractures. But what happens when a filling falls out?

If you’ve lost a filling, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. At The Dentistry Collective in Rancho Bernardo, we help patients restore damaged teeth quickly and comfortably—before a minor issue becomes a major one.

Why Do Fillings Fall Out?

Fillings are built to last, but they aren’t invincible. Over time, wear and tear, chewing forces, or changes in your oral hygiene routine can weaken the bond between the filling and your natural tooth.

Common causes of a lost filling include:

• Biting into hard foods
• Tooth grinding (bruxism)
• Decay forming around or under the filling
• Age-related weakening of surrounding enamel

Once a filling is compromised, bacteria can quickly enter the gap, leading to further decay, tooth sensitivity, or even fractures.

What Happens If a Lost Filling Isn’t Treated?

An untreated missing filling can lead to:

• Deep decay
• Tooth fractures
• Infection
• Pain or sensitivity
• Potential need for root canal therapy or tooth extraction

The sooner you address the issue, the more conservative your treatment can be. Waiting too long could mean a simple filling becomes a more complex—and more expensive—procedure.

How We Treat a Tooth with a Missing Filling

At The Dentistry Collective, we tailor your treatment based on the severity of the damage:

🦷 Small or Moderate Loss: If the missing filling was minor and the tooth is otherwise healthy, we may simply clean the area and place a new filling—often using tooth-colored composite resin for a seamless, natural look.

👑 Large Filling or Extensive Damage: If the original filling was large or the tooth structure is too compromised, we may recommend a dental crown. A crown fully covers the tooth, restoring strength, function, and appearance while protecting it from future damage.

With advanced digital imaging and same-day crown technology, we make the process efficient and comfortable.

Don’t Wait—Restore Your Smile Today

If you’ve lost a filling, don’t wait for discomfort to set in. Let our expert team at The Dentistry Collective in Rancho Bernardo evaluate the tooth and recommend the best solution to restore your health and comfort.

📞 Call us at 858-451-2555
📍 Visit us in North County San Diego
🌐 Learn more or book online