Can a Cracked Filling Be Repaired—or Does It Need to Be Replaced?

You’re chewing something crunchy—or maybe sipping a hot drink, totally relaxed—when you notice something’s off. It might be subtle at first: a sharp edge on a tooth, sudden sensitivity, or even a strange texture. If you’ve had dental work done before, your first thought might be that a filling in Foley, AL has cracked. But what happens next? Can it be repaired, or does it need to come out entirely?

Small Cracks Can Sometimes Be Smoothed or Bonded

If the damage isn’t quite an emergency, there are cases where your dentist can simply smooth out the crack or apply a bonding material to reinforce the weakened area. This kind of repair is only possible when the filling is still mostly intact, and there’s no decay underneath. It’s a quicker fix, but not always a permanent one—especially if the tooth is under heavy pressure from grinding or chewing.

Replacement Is Often the Safer Long-Term Option

In most cases, a cracked filling needs to be replaced. Once a filling has fractured, it no longer seals the tooth properly, which allows bacteria and food debris to sneak in. This can lead to decay forming underneath the filling—something you won’t be able to see or feel until it’s become a bigger problem. Replacing the damaged material helps prevent future complications and reinforces the tooth’s strength.

Get It Checked Before It Gets Worse

If you think a filling has cracked, don’t wait. Even small fractures can lead to discomfort, sensitivity, or further breakdown of the tooth. Your dentist in Foley, AL can examine the area, take X-rays if needed, and decide whether a repair or full replacement is best. Catching it early can save you time, discomfort, and money later on. Get in touch with Sand Dollar Dental today to learn more.