If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or bleeding will not stop, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.
Lost or Broken Filling Repair in Seattle
When a filling falls out or breaks, the tooth underneath is exposed, even if it doesn't hurt. Dr. Jaime Lee replaces lost and broken fillings at Smile Art on First Hill and checks whether the tooth needs a larger repair.
Is a lost filling urgent if it doesn't hurt?
Yes, it is worth a prompt visit. Without the filling, the tooth can trap food, become sensitive, or break more easily. Call the office to schedule a visit as soon as the same day.
What can I do until I see Dr. Lee?
For first-aid steps, we share the American Dental Association's guidance, quoted word for word:
"When you have a dental emergency, it's important to visit your dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible."
Source: American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, "Dental Emergencies".
Why do fillings fall out or break?
Every filling wears with years of chewing, and the tooth around an old filling can develop new decay that loosens it. Biting on something hard, or grinding at night, can crack a filling or the tooth holding it. Very large fillings are more likely to break than small ones.
What happens after the new filling?
Dr. Lee checks the bite on the new filling so it feels natural, and reviews the other fillings in your mouth at routine visits. If several older fillings are wearing, she can help you plan when to replace them.
How is a lost filling replaced?
Dr. Lee examines the tooth and takes X-rays if needed to check for new decay. If enough healthy tooth remains, she places a new filling; if the tooth has weakened, she may recommend an onlay or crown instead. She explains the choice before she begins.
Related care: Dental fillings, Inlays and onlays, Dental crowns.
How much does an emergency visit cost?
The cost depends on the exam, any X-rays, and the treatment the tooth needs. Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans, and our team will gladly verify your benefits before your appointment. For out-of-pocket expenses, we offer straightforward financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and LendingClub.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Coverage depends on the treatment provided and your individual PPO plan.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my filling fall out?
Fillings can wear or break over time, and new decay around a filling can loosen it.
How long can I wait?
It is best to have the tooth seen promptly, since an exposed tooth is easier to damage.
Can a filling be replaced the same day?
Our team schedules emergency visits as soon as the same day, and Dr. Lee explains at the exam what the tooth needs.
Does insurance cover a replacement filling?
Many plans cover fillings in part. Our team checks your PPO benefits.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.