Introduction: Broken Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are a trusted method for treating cavities and restoring damaged teeth, but they aren’t indestructible. Over time, fillings can crack, break, or fall out due to various factors like chewing, teeth grinding, or eating hard foods. A broken filling exposes the inner part of your tooth, making it susceptible to further problems. This blog will guide you on how to recognize a damaged filling, the issues it can cause, and the steps to take for repair.
Indicators of Broken Dental Fillings
Chewing Pain
Experiencing pain while chewing is a common indicator of a broken filling. The pain can vary from mild discomfort to sharp, severe pain, depending on the extent of the damage.
Temperature Sensitivity
Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks may signal a compromised filling. The exposed inner tooth can react to temperature changes, leading to discomfort.
Cavities
A broken filling can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, quickly leading to new cavities. The gap left by the broken filling can trap food particles and bacteria, accelerating tooth decay.
Nerve Infections
When your tooth’s inner portion is exposed, bacteria can reach the nerve, causing infections. This can result in severe pain and may require more extensive treatment, such as a root canal.
Food Trapping
A broken filling can create gaps where food gets stuck, leading to gum irritation and potential infections. Trapped food can also contribute to bad breath.
Gum Issues and Bone Loss
If left untreated, the area around a broken filling can become irritated and infected, leading to gum disease and even bone loss.
Bad Breath
Bacteria trapped under a broken filling can cause bad breath, indicating that your filling needs attention.
Tooth Loss
Ignoring a broken filling can lead to severe tooth decay and, eventually, tooth loss. The tooth’s structural integrity can be compromised, making it difficult to save.
Repairing a Damaged Filling
Thorough Examination
At Emergency Dental of St. Louis, our experienced dentists will thoroughly examine your tooth and take X-rays to assess the damage and check for any new decay.
Filling Repair
If the filling can be repaired, we will smooth rough edges and replace lost material, restoring the filling and protecting the tooth’s inner portion.
Filling Replacement
For extensive damage, replacing the entire filling may be necessary to prevent further issues and ensure complete protection of your tooth.
Common Questions: Broken Dental Fillings
How long do dental fillings last?
Dental fillings can last between 5 and 15 years, depending on the material used and how well you care for your teeth.
What should I do if my filling falls out?
Keep the area clean, avoid chewing on that side, and contact our office immediately to schedule an emergency appointment.
Can a broken filling cause an abscess?
If left untreated, a broken filling can lead to an abscess, a severe infection requiring prompt treatment.
Conclusion: Broken Dental Fillings
A broken dental filling is more than a minor inconvenience; it can lead to pain, sensitivity, infections, and tooth loss if not addressed promptly. Emergency Dental of St. Louis is dedicated to providing swift and effective solutions to restore your dental health. Don’t wait to get your broken filling repaired—contact us today to schedule an appointment or walk in during our open hours for same-day service. Your comfort and dental health are our top priorities.
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