Posted on 8/1/2025 by Durham Prosthodontics Office
When it comes to taking care of our teeth, most of us are familiar with the basics: brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for checkups. But what happens when a cavity is too large to be treated with a simple filling? In these cases, your dentist may recommend a large filling, also known as an onlay or inlay. While large fillings can effectively restore damaged teeth, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with them.
The Problem with Large Fillings
Large fillings are more prone to fracture and wear down over time compared to smaller fillings. This can be due to the increased stress placed on the tooth and the filling material itself. Additionally, large fillings can make it more difficult to maintain good oral hygiene, as food and bacteria can become trapped around the edges of the filling. This can lead to further decay and the need for additional treatment, such as a crown or even a root canal.
Long-Term Consequences
While large fillings may seem like a quick and easy solution, neglecting the potential risks can have serious long-term consequences for your oral health. Here are some potential complications associated with large fillings:
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Increased sensitivity: Large fillings can make teeth more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
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Tooth pain: If a large filling fractures or wears down, it can irritate the nerve of the tooth, causing pain.
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Secondary decay: The edges of large fillings can be difficult to clean, increasing the risk of decay around the filling.
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Tooth loss: In severe cases, a large filling can weaken the tooth to the point where it needs to be extracted.
Minimizing the Risks
If you have a large filling, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of complications. These include:
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Maintaining good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth twice a day, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
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Seeing your dentist regularly: Schedule regular checkups and cleanings so that your dentist can monitor the health of your fillings.
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Avoiding hard and sticky foods: These types of foods can put extra stress on your fillings and increase the risk of fracture.
Alternatives to Large Fillings
In some cases, there may be alternative options to large fillings that can provide a more durable and long-lasting restoration. These options may include:
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Crowns: Crowns are a type of cap that covers the entire tooth, providing increased protection and support.
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Onlays/Inlays: Onlays and inlays are similar to crowns, but they only cover a portion of the tooth. They can be a good option when a large filling is needed, but not the entire tooth needs to be covered.
Making Informed Choices
It's important to discuss the risks and benefits of all treatment options with your dentist before deciding on the best course of action for your individual needs. By understanding the potential dangers associated with large fillings, you can make informed choices about your dental care and take steps to protect your oral health for the long term.
About Durham Prosthodontics | Durham, NC Durham Prosthodontics specializes in advanced restorative and cosmetic dental treatments, including implants and bridges. Schedule your consultation today! Dr. Geoffrey Cunningham and Dr. Kyle Gazdeck, 3709 University Dr Suite D, Durham, NC 27707, (984) 312-7056, mydurhamdentist.com, 9/11/2025, Page Phrases: dental implants Durham NC,
When it comes to taking care of our teeth, most of us are familiar with the basics: brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for checkups. But what happens when a cavity is too large to be treated with a simple filling? In these cases, your dentist may recommend a large filling, also known as an onlay or inlay. While large fillings can effectively restore damaged teeth, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with them.