Dental fillings play an essential role in protecting teeth that have been damaged by cavities or minor fractures. They help restore the tooth’s structure, prevent further decay, and maintain proper function.

However, like any dental work, fillings are not indestructible. Over time, they can wear down, become loose, or even break. When this happens, it’s important to take action quickly to avoid further complications.

A broken filling can cause discomfort, sensitivity, or even expose your tooth to bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. If you’ve recently discovered a broken or missing filling, don’t panic, there are steps you can take to protect your tooth until you see a dentist.

In this blog post, we’ll explain why fillings break, what you should do when it happens, and how Torbay Smiles Dentistry can help restore your smile.

Why Do Fillings Break?

Dental fillings are designed to be durable, but they are not meant to last forever. The lifespan of a filling depends on several factors, including the type of material used, the size of the filling, and daily habits like chewing and grinding.

One of the most common reasons fillings break is wear and tear. Over the years, constant pressure from chewing can weaken the filling, causing it to crack or fall out. Certain habits, such as chewing on hard foods, biting on non-food objects (like pens or fingernails), or using your teeth as tools, can also put excessive stress on a filling.

Tooth decay is another major cause of broken fillings. If bacteria sneak under the filling and cause decay, the structure of the tooth weakens, making it more likely for the filling to break. In some cases, a filling may also fail due to improper bonding during placement or because of temperature changes that cause the filling material to expand and contract over time.

Regardless of the cause, a broken filling should never be ignored. Acting quickly can help prevent further damage and ensure that your tooth remains healthy.

What to Do If Your Filling Breaks

If you notice that your filling is cracked, loose, or has completely fallen out, the first step is to assess the situation. Look in the mirror to see if you can spot the damage, and check if you feel any sharp edges or increased sensitivity. If your tooth is causing pain, it’s important to take steps to protect it while you wait for your dental appointment.

One of the best things you can do is keep the area clean. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove any debris and prevent bacteria from settling into the exposed area. If you’re experiencing discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help reduce any swelling or pain.

It’s also a good idea to avoid chewing on the affected tooth. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth until you can see your dentist. If the broken filling has left a sharp edge, you can temporarily cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent it from cutting your tongue or cheek.

The most important step is to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Even if you are not in pain, a broken filling leaves your tooth vulnerable to further damage and decay. The sooner you get it repaired, the better the outcome will be.

What Happens at the Dentist?

When you visit Torbay Smiles Dentistry for a broken filling, your dentist will first examine the affected tooth to determine the best course of action. X-rays may be taken to check for any underlying decay or structural damage. Depending on the severity of the break, your dentist will recommend one of the following solutions:

If the filling is only slightly damaged or loose, it may be possible to replace it with a new filling. The dentist will remove any debris or decayed portions of the tooth before placing a fresh filling to restore its strength.

If the filling is completely missing or the tooth has suffered significant damage, a dental crown may be needed. A crown provides additional protection by covering the entire tooth, preventing further breakage and ensuring long-term stability.

In rare cases, if the tooth is severely decayed or fractured beyond repair, an extraction may be the only option. However, this is usually a last resort, and dentists will do everything possible to save the tooth before considering removal.

The good news is that modern dental techniques make filling replacements and restorations quick and painless. Most procedures can be completed in a single visit, and your dentist will ensure that your tooth looks and feels just like it did before the filling broke.

Preventing Future Filling Breaks

While no filling lasts forever, there are steps you can take to help prolong its lifespan and prevent future breakage. Maintaining a strong oral hygiene routine by brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and using fluoride toothpaste can help protect your teeth from decay, reducing the chances of needing frequent fillings.

Avoiding hard foods such as ice, hard candies, and popcorn kernels can also help prevent unnecessary stress on your fillings. If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a night guard to protect both your natural teeth and any dental work you have.

Regular dental checkups are another key part of prevention. Seeing your dentist every six months allows for early detection of weakened fillings, giving your dentist the opportunity to repair them before they break completely. Preventative care is always easier and less expensive than dealing with a dental emergency.

Broken Fillings? Let Torbay Smiles Dentistry Help!

If you have a broken or missing filling, it’s important to take action before the problem worsens. At Torbay Smiles Dentistry, we offer expert care to restore your tooth quickly and comfortably. Whether you need a simple filling replacement, a dental crown, or more advanced treatment, our team is here to help.

Don’t wait until a broken filling turns into a bigger issue. Schedule an appointment with us today, and let us restore your smile with quality, long-lasting dental care!