First, do not swallow the pieces of the filling to prevent inhaling them. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area. Avoid eating on that side of your mouth until you see a dentist.

If you swallow small pieces of filling material, it will safely pass through your digestive tract without causing harm. However, if you experience breathing difficulties or chest pain, seek medical attention, as it may have been inhaled into your lungs.

It depends on your symptoms. If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, or bleeding, please see a dentist immediately. If there is no pain, it is not an emergency, but you should still schedule an appointment within a few days to prevent further problems.

You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce discomfort.

Yes. Over-the-counter temporary dental kits or dental wax can be used to cover the exposed tooth. This protects it from air, hot/cold foods, and sharp edges until you can see a dentist.

The dentist will evaluate the tooth a recommend the best option. This may include replacing the filling, placing a dental crown, or performing a root canal if the nerve is exposed or infected.

With either restorative option, there will be no pain as the area will be numb with a local anesthetic.

A standard filling replacement can take between 20 to 60 minutes. If more extensive treatment like a crown or root canal is needed, this may take 1.5 hours to 2 hours.

Composite (tooth-colored) fillings typically last 5 to 10 years

Fillings can break due to normal wear and tear over time, biting down on hard foods, physical trauma, or decay under the existing filling.

To prevent issues, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing daily. Avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candies. Wear a nightguard if you know you grind your teeth is also helpful.