Chipped Dental Filling? Don’t Panic – Here’s What to Do

April 3, 2025

by Youth Dental

Chipped Dental Filling? Don’t Panic – Here’s What to Do

Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn

Reading time: 3 minutes

Ouch! Did your filling just break? If so, you might feel discomfort, sensitivity, or even pain.

A broken tooth filling is more than an annoyance, it can expose your tooth to decay, sensitivity, and even infection.

In this blog, we explain what you should do if your filling chips or falls out. Quick action can save your tooth from more extensive dental treatments, so it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible.

We offer restorative procedures at our offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton and Hampden.

Key Takeaway

If your dental filling chips or falls out, rinse with warm salt water, avoid chewing on the affected side, use dental wax for sharp edges, and schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

Why Do Dental Fillings Chip?

Dental fillings are durable but not indestructible.

Over time, they can weaken, leading to cracks or breakage. Common causes of chipped fillings include:

Biting hard foods: Crunching on ice, nuts, or hard candy can crack your filling material.
Teeth grinding (bruxism): Clenching or grinding weakens dental restorations.
Wear and tear: Composite resin fillings and amalgam fillings deteriorate over time.
Tooth decay: If bacteria seep in, they weaken the tooth and current filling.
Accidents or injury: Trauma from sports or falls can damage your dental filling materials.
Temperature changes: Hot or cold foods cause fillings to expand and contract, creating filling cracks.

What to Do If Your Filling Chips

Follow these steps immediately:

Rinse with warm salt water: This cleans the area and helps prevent infection.
Check for sharp edges: If the broken filling has a sharp edge, be careful not to cut your tongue or cheek.
Apply dental wax: Smooth over rough spots with dental wax.
Avoid chewing on that side: Reduce pressure from bite forces to prevent further damage.
Take pain relievers if needed: Over-the-counter pain medication can ease discomfort.
Use a gauze pad for sensitivity: If needed, place cotton swabs or gauze pads over the area.
Schedule a dentist appointment: A timely repair prevents serious dental concerns.

Common Locations for Chipped Fillings

Certain teeth are more vulnerable to dental damage and broken tooth filling results:

Molars (back teeth): These handle heavy chewing forces, making dental fillings more prone to damage.
Front teeth: Composite resin fillings on front teeth can chip from biting into hard foods.
Premolars: Fillings in these teeth can chip or crack, especially in people who grind their teeth or chew hard objects.
Baby teeth: Fillings in baby teeth can chip from normal wear, chewing on hard foods, or teeth grinding.

Treatment Options for a Chipped Filling

Your dentist will determine the best dental treatment based on the extent of damage. Common treatment options include:

Replacement filling: If the damage is minor, the dentist can place a new filling using composite material or amalgam.
Dental crown: If the filling is large and cannot be repaired with another filling, a dental crown may be required.
Root canal treatment: If the tooth pulp is exposed, a root canal and dental crown may be necessary.

How to Prevent Fillings from Chipping

Follow these preventive measures to avoid dealing with a broken tooth filling:

Watch your diet: Avoid acidic foods, sticky candy, and hard snacks.
Use a nightguard: If you grind your teeth, a nightguard will protect your teeth from the wear and tear of grinding.
Practice good oral care: Brush, floss, and see your dentist for regular cleanings.
Schedule routine exams: During a dental checkup, your dentist will check your fillings to make sure they are still strong and firmly in place.