If you’ve ever had a cavity, you may have gotten a dental filling. Fillings are durable, and new composite resin fillings can last several years or even a lifetime with the proper application and care. However, they’re not indestructible and can break. Some older amalgam dental fillings may also wear out gradually over time. Beard & Holmen LTD in Waterloo, IL, explains why it’s crucial to have a broken dental filling repaired as soon as possible. 

Why You Need to Fix Your Broken Dental Fillings 

Pain

When a dental filling breaks, it can expose the tooth’s sensitive dentin. You might experience pain and discomfort when you bite into hot or cold foods or when you brush your teeth. You may also experience a sharp pain when you eat, due to pressure on the tooth and/or gums. See your dentist to replace the filling and relieve the pain. 

Infections

A broken filling leaves the tooth vulnerable and susceptible to oral infections. Oral infections are a serious problem that can cause widespread damage. In severe cases, you may need root canal therapy to treat the infection. Infections often escalate to this extent when a cavity occurs after a filling is broken or lost. In the worst case scenario, you may even need a tooth extraction. Fortunately, this can be prevented by practicing healthy oral hygiene and seeing your dentist as soon as possible after a filling breaks. 

Cracks and Fractures

Loose or broken dental fillings can be caused by cracks and fractures in the teeth. Dental fillings require the surrounding tooth stabilize them and prevent them from leaking. While amalgam fillings use the physical shape of the the tooth and composite resin fillings use a bonding agent to secure them, both of them require physical contact to the tooth to keep our plaque and bacteria. If the tooth is broken or fracture, this may disrupt the bond or margin of the filling, allowing more tooth decay to occur.  

If you have a broken dental filling, don’t wait to see your dentist. The quicker you address the problem, the less pain and damage you’ll experience. If you’re a resident of southern Illinois or St. Louis, visit the compassionate professionals at Beard & Holmen LTD. With a comprehensive range of cosmetic and general dentistry services and reputation for friendly, expert care, they’re one of the area’s most trusted dental care providers. Call (618) 939-7181 to speak with a friendly staff member, or visit their website to learn more about their services.