Realising that your tooth filling has been damaged or broken can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Unfortunately, it’s not a unique experience to go through, and the good news is that you don’t have to suffer forever, as there are ways of treating a broken or damaged filling.
In this blog post, we will look in detail at the different treatments available for repairing a broken filling, what needs to be done before taking action, and some tips on how best to prevent future fillings from breaking. By reading this article, you’ll gain an understanding of the options available so that you can make sure your teeth stay as healthy and strong as they should!
Overview of a Broken Tooth Filling
A broken filling can be a stressful and nerve-wracking experience. A filling is usually installed to protect your chipped tooth from further damage, but it can cause a lot of discomfort when it gets damaged.
You may feel sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, pain when biting down forcefully, or a rough edge on the filling. If you’re struggling with a broken tooth filling, this blog post will provide a detailed overview of what to expect and what treatment options are available.
What Causes a Broken Tooth Filling?
Several factors can cause broken dental fillings. One of the most common causes is tooth decay, which weakens the structure of the tooth and the dental fillings.
Trauma to the tooth from grinding, biting on hard objects, or an injury can also lead to a damaged filling and broken or chipped tooth.
Temperature changes in your mouth from hot and cold substances can cause the filling to expand, contract, or crack over time.
Types of Treatments for Repairing a Broken Filling
There are different ways to fix a broken filling, and this blog post aims to share the most common treatments for this dental problem. Keep reading to know more!
Dental Bonding
First, dental bonding is a procedure where a composite resin is applied to the tooth and then cured with a special light. This procedure is commonly used to restore a chipped or broken tooth but can also be used to fix broken dental fillings.
In this treatment, the dentist removes and replaces the broken filling with composite resin material. Dental bonding is a relatively affordable treatment that can be completed in a single appointment. However, there might be better solutions for large fillings.
Dental Crown
A dental crown is another popular treatment for fixing a broken filling. This procedure involves removing the damaged filling and placing a cap or crown over the broken teeth. The crown is usually made of porcelain or ceramic materials that closely resemble a natural tooth.
Dental crowns are more expensive than dental bonding but are known to offer better longevity and durability. They can also address other dental issues like cracked or decayed teeth.
Inlay or Onlay
An inlay or onlay is a custom-made filling created in a dental lab. It is a procedure that can fix a moderately broken filling. The dentist takes a mould of the tooth, which is then sent to the lab to make the inlay or onlay.
The dentist attaches the inlay or onlay to the affected tooth using dental cement during the next appointment. Inlays and onlays are more costly than dental bonding but can last up to 30 years or more with proper care.
Root Canal Treatment
Root canal therapy aims to repair a severely damaged or infected tooth. This procedure is required when the nerve of a tooth has been compromised due to injury or decay.
After removing the damaged filling, the dentist will clean the pulp chamber and any infected tissue.
Once the tooth is cleaned, it is filled with a special dental material and sealed with a crown. Although this is a more surgical or invasive procedure than the other three treatments, it is necessary when a filling is severely compromised.
Tips on How Best to Prevent Future Fillings from Breaking
In this section, we’ll share some useful tips on preventing future fillings from breaking and ensuring your permanent teeth remain optimal.
Choose the Right Filling Material:
A critical factor affecting the durability of your filling is the material used to fill your teeth.
Different kinds of filling materials are available, such as amalgam, porcelain, resin, and gold. Amalgam is the most durable but unsuitable for front teeth because of its silver-like appearance.
Porcelain and resin are tooth-coloured fillings that are more aesthetically pleasing but less sturdy than amalgam. Gold is the most robust material for fillings but also the most expensive. Consult with your dentist before choosing the right filling material for you.
Avoid Chewing Hard Foods:
Chewing hard foods like ice, nuts, and popcorn can cause pressure and force on your teeth, leading to filling damage and chipped or broken teeth.
Be mindful of the hard foods you eat, and avoid biting down on anything that puts too much pressure on your teeth. If you enjoy these foods, try breaking them into smaller pieces before eating.
Practise Good Oral Hygiene:
Maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent tooth decay and prolongs the lifespan of your fillings.
Brush your teeth two times daily using fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and use mouthwash to kill any lingering bacteria. Visit your dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a broken tooth filling can be caused by several common things, such as grinding your teeth, eating hard foods, and poor oral hygiene. It is important to take extra care of your teeth to prevent any damage from occurring to the delicate enamel of your teeth.
If you need help with a broken tooth filling or even treatments like dental implants, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us and contact us at (02) 9538 7875. We can provide advice and treatments that fit your needs. Our friendly team at Parramatta Green Dental is available every weekday to answer questions and provide support regarding broken tooth fillings and other solutions. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries or concerns regarding your dental health.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17002-dental-fillings
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-fillingsÂ