Why Has My Tooth Filling Cracked?

Tooth fillings should last for many years, but sometimes, they crack. If you’ve noticed a crack in your filling, you may wonder why it happened and what steps you should take next. Let’s learn about the common causes of tooth filling cracked, symptoms to look out for, and the options for repair.

Is It Normal for Fillings to Crack?

Yes, fillings can crack over time. Normal wear and tear from eating, chewing, or grinding teeth puts stress on them. A tooth filling cracked can expose the inner tooth to bacteria, leading to decay. Older fillings are more prone to cracks because they weaken over the years. Regular filling check-ups in Phoenix allow your dentist to catch these problems early so they don’t turn into bigger issues.

What Does a Cracked Filling Look Like?

A cracked filling may not be easy to spot on your own. Sometimes, a tooth filling cracked can go unnoticed until a routine dental exam. So, you may see a thin line or small gap in the filling area or notice a rough spot with your tongue. In other cases, the crack may cause part of the filling to go missing with slight discoloration around it.

Cracked Filling in Tooth Symptoms

When a tooth filling cracks, several signs indicate it’s time to see a dentist:

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary foods
• Pain when you bite or chew
• Roughness around the filling
• Discoloration near the filling area

These symptoms could mean a filling has cracked, chipped, or worn down. If you notice any of these, it’s time to visit your dentist. Contact us or call us at (602) 246-0385 to book your consultation.

What Causes a Cracked Filling?

Many factors can lead to a cracked filling:

• Biting down on hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy can break a filling.
• Teeth grinding or clenching habit puts pressure on teeth, leading to filling cracks.
• Age and wear weaken fillings over time, especially if they’re old.
• Frequent exposure to hot and cold foods causes fillings to expand and contract, leading to cracking.

Can a Cracked Filling Be Repaired?

Yes, it may very well be repaired or replaced to prevent further dental issues. Your dentist will examine the cracked filling to assess the damage. For minor cracks, they may polish and smooth the filling. Moderate cracks require removing and replacing only the damaged part, while extensive cracks may need a full filling replacement. If the crack weakens the tooth, a dental crown may be recommended to protect it. After the repair, your dentist will provide care instructions to maintain the filling or crown.

Read More: All On Four Dental Implants Phoenix

How Long Can I Leave a Cracked Filling?

Having a tooth filling cracked can increase the risk of infection in that tooth. Leaving a cracked filling untreated may lead to serious dental issues:

• Decay might start beneath or around the filling within 1-3 months.
• In 3-6 months, the crack could spread, damaging more of the tooth.
• After 6 Months, infection could develop, which often leads to pain and more extensive treatments.

Ideally, you should see a dentist within 1-2 weeks of noticing a cracked filling. Delaying beyond this can lead to an increased risk of complications.

Is a Cracked Filling an Emergency?

Yes! If you notice your tooth filling cracked, schedule a dental visit as soon as possible. In many cases, it is considered an emergency , especially if it causes pain, swelling, or sensitivity. Though not all cracked fillings qualify as emergencies, ignoring them for too long can lead to more severe issues. If you’re uncertain, explain the symptoms to your dentist.

Can a Cracked Filling Cause Toothache?

Yes, a tooth filling cracked may lead to a toothache. A crack allows sensations from hot or cold to reach sensitive parts of the tooth. When bacteria enter through the crack, decay may develop, which could trigger a toothache.

Can a Cracked Filling Cause Jaw Pain?

Yes, jaw pain can sometimes happen when a filling is cracked. A crack affects your bite, putting strain on your jaw muscles and leading to discomfort. If you grind or clench your teeth, the uneven surface caused by the cracked filling could worsen jaw pain.

Manage Your Tooth Filling Cracked in Arizona

If you think your filling may have cracked, it’s time to visit a dentist. At Central Valley Dentistry, we specialize in assessing and treating cracked fillings with a focus on comfort and care. Our team will examine the crack and recommend the best course of action to restore your comfort and health. Don’t wait to address a cracked filling, and book your appointment. Taking action now keeps your smile healthy.

Conclusion

A cracked filling might seem like a small issue, but it can quickly lead to more significant dental problems if ignored. When a tooth filling cracked, it may expose deeper layers of the tooth, causing discomfort. Identifying the signs and scheduling a dental appointment early can help save your tooth, prevent pain, and avoid future dental treatments.

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