If a filling is not replaced within a few days, the unprotected tooth could sustain harm.
Bacteria and food particles can adhere to the void, resulting in deterioration. In addition, the lost filling may expose the dentin, the second layer of the tooth beneath the outer enamel. Dentin is softer and more prone to degradation than enamel. Dentin that is exposed might also be particularly sensitive.
Additional tooth decay or damage may necessitate more comprehensive treatment, such as a crown, root canal, or extraction. Therefore, the sooner the filling can be replaced, the better.