Cavity fillings serve as dental restorations, repairing teeth affected by decay or damage. These materials fill the space left after removing decayed tooth tissue, restoring the tooth’s form and function. While designed to be durable, cavity fillings are not impervious to damage and can indeed break or become dislodged. This common dental issue can arise from various factors, impacting the integrity of the restoration. Understanding the potential for breakage is a first step in maintaining long-term oral health.
Understanding Why Fillings Break
Fillings can fracture due to the continuous forces exerted during chewing, particularly when biting down on hard foods. Habits such as teeth grinding, known as bruxism, also place immense pressure on fillings, leading to their wear, cracking, or dislodgement over time.
Another common reason for filling failure is new decay forming around or underneath the existing restoration. Bacteria accumulating at the filling’s margins can erode enamel, creating new cavities and compromising the seal. This “recurrent decay” can weaken the tooth structure, causing the filling to lose its grip.
Physical trauma to the mouth or face, such as an accidental blow, can directly chip or dislodge a filling. The age of a filling also plays a role, as materials wear over time. Fillings, on average, have a lifespan that varies by material, but they are not meant to last indefinitely. Issues during the initial placement, such as poor bonding, can lead to premature failure. Cracks in the tooth near the filling can further contribute to its instability.
Common Filling Materials and Their Durability
A dental filling’s longevity and failure modes are influenced by its material. Amalgam, or silver, fillings consist of a mixture of metals. They are known for their strength and durability, making them suitable for back teeth where chewing forces are highest, and can last for 10 to 15 years or more. While robust, amalgam can expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially leading to fractures.
Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored, made from a blend of plastic and glass particles, offering aesthetic appeal. They chemically bond to the tooth, providing good support. Composite resins generally last between 5 to 10 years, though smaller fillings with good oral hygiene can last longer. They are more susceptible to wear and staining compared to amalgam and may chip under significant pressure.
Porcelain or ceramic fillings offer durability and excellent aesthetics, matching natural tooth color. They are strong and resistant to staining, often lasting 10 to 15 years or more. While durable, ceramic can be more brittle than metal and may be prone to fracture if subjected to extreme biting forces. Gold fillings, though less common, are exceptionally durable and can last over 15 years.
Recognizing a Broken Filling and Taking Action
Identifying a broken filling involves noticing changes or new symptoms. Sudden pain or increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary foods can signal a compromised filling, as the inner tooth may become exposed. A rough or jagged edge, a visible gap or hole, or food frequently getting caught are common indicators. Sometimes, a person might feel or hear the moment a filling cracks.
If a broken filling is suspected, prompt action prevents further damage or discomfort. Gently rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help clean the area and reduce irritation. Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent additional stress. Over-the-counter dental wax or temporary filling material can be used as a temporary measure to cover sharp edges or exposed areas until a dentist can be seen. Contacting a dentist immediately for assessment and repair is important, as delaying treatment can lead to increased pain, infection, or more extensive procedures.
Strategies for Preventing Filling Breakage
Preventing filling breakage involves consistent oral care and mindful habits. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily and flossing once a day, helps prevent new decay around existing fillings. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for early detection of issues, allowing dentists to address wear or minor damage before it escalates.
Dietary habits also protect fillings. Avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods reduces the risk of dislodging or cracking a filling.
- Ice
- Nuts
- Hard candies
- Sticky caramels
For individuals who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism), wearing a nightguard significantly reduces pressure on fillings during sleep. Using a mouthguard during sports or activities where facial trauma is possible provides additional protection for teeth and fillings.