Fractured Filling
A fractured filling happens when a dental filling that repairs a decayed or damaged tooth cracks, chips, or breaks. Everyday factors like chewing force, teeth grinding, and sudden temperature changes can weaken a tooth filling, making it vulnerable to fractures. Understanding what causes a fractured filling, how to recognize the warning signs, and what treatment options are available will help you maintain healthy teeth and avoid unnecessary pain or costly procedures.
Common Causes of a Fractured Filling
Symptoms
Bite Pressure and Chewing Forces:
Back teeth (molars) handle intense pressure from chewing. Regularly consuming hard foods, such as ice or candy, can weaken a tooth filling and lead to a fractured filling.Thermal Expansion and Contraction:
Frequent exposure to hot and cold foods and beverages causes fillings—like amalgam or composite—to expand and contract. Over time, this stress increases the risk of a fracture.Age and Material Wear:
All fillings have lifespans. Older dental fillings can become brittle, making them more likely to crack and result in a fracture..Teeth Grinding (Bruxism):
Bruxism puts extra pressure on teeth and fillings. Without protection, constant grinding can quickly turn a solid filling into a fracture..Secondary Decay:
If new cavities form beneath or around an existing filling, they compromise its stability. The damaged area can easily develop into a fracture.
- Sudden, sharp pain or discomfort when biting
- Heightened sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- A visible crack, chip, or change in your tooth’s surface
- Rough or uneven edges noticeable with your tongue
If you notice these signs, schedule an appointment with your dentist to address the issue promptly.
How Dentists Treat a Fractured Filling
Early diagnosis and treatment are vital. Your dentist will perform an exam, take dental X-rays, and recommend the most effective restoration for your broken filling. Treatment options include:
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Replacing the Filling:
Removing the fractured filling and placing a new one made from amalgam, composite resin, porcelain, or gold. -
Inlays, Onlays, or Dental Crowns:
If the fractured filling affects a larger portion of the tooth, a more substantial restoration, like a dental crown, may be necessary. -
Root Canal Treatment:
If the fracture extends into the pulp or causes infection, a root canal followed by a crown might be required to restore the tooth. -
Extraction:
In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction and a suitable replacement, such as a dental implant or bridge, may be needed.
Prevention
Regular Dental Checkups:
Early detection of weakened fillings helps prevent them from becoming a fractured filling.Good Oral Hygiene:
Brushing, flossing, and using fluoride toothpaste maintain healthy enamel and reduce filling damage.Wear a Night Guard:
If you grind your teeth, a custom-fitted guard minimizes stress on your fillings and reduces the risk of a fractured filling.Avoid Hard Foods and Habits:
Steer clear of chewing ice or hard candy, and never use your teeth as tools
How do I know if I have a fractured filling?
Watch for sudden pain when biting, sensitivity to temperatures, or changes in the tooth’s surface. These are strong indicators of a fractured filling.
Is it safe to wait before seeing a dentist if my filling cracks?
It’s best to act quickly. A fractured filling can expose your tooth to bacteria, leading to decay, infection, and more complex treatments later on.
Does fixing a fractured filling hurt?
Dentists use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Most patients feel only mild pressure during the procedure.
How long do fillings last before they can become a fractured filling?
Fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on the material, quality of care, and personal habits.
Can I prevent a fractured filling in the future?
Yes. Maintain good oral hygiene, visit your dentist regularly, wear a night guard if you grind your teeth, and avoid biting hard objects to reduce the risk of a fractured filling.