Broken Fillings

What Causes a Filling to Break or Fall Out?

• Biting Hard Foods: Chewing on hard or sticky items like nuts, ice, or toffees can dislodge or crack a filling.
• Tooth Grinding (Bruxism): Excessive pressure from grinding or clenching wears down fillings over time.
• Wear and Tear: Fillings, especially older ones, naturally degrade and weaken with years of use.
• Decay Around the Filling: If new decay forms beneath or around the filling, it can undermine its support.

Signs you may have broken a filling include:

• Sudden pain or sensitivity to pressure, hot, or cold.
• A noticeable hole or gap in the tooth.
• A sharp edge or rough surface.
• Feeling the filling move or fall out while eating.
• Food getting trapped in the tooth more easily

If you have a broken filling it is important to contact us to see a dentist as soon as possible to avoid infection or further damage. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, keep the area clean by brushing if you still can or rinse with warm salt water to keep the area clean.

Treatment Options

Depending on the condition of the tooth, your dentist may:

• Replace the filling
• Place a crown if the tooth is significantly weakened
• Perform a root canal if the nerve is exposed or infected