Sharp tooth cutting my tongue

[Lauren]

I noticed a part of one of my fillings break off my tooth last week. Ever since then the tooth has become sharp and has cut into my tongue. My tongue is now sore and bleeds occasionally. What Shall I do?

Do I need to have the whole filling replaced? I would prefer not to have my filling replaced if possible. Are there any alternative solutions?

[Dr Mohsen J. Esfahani]

When a filling or tooth breaks, it can sometimes be polished and repaired but often it needs to be replaced.

If the fracture is small, it may be possible to polish the sharp edge with a polishing kit and the filling will be ok.

If the fracture is moderate in severity, the filling can sometimes be repaired by bonding white filling to the rest of the filling and this will make the edge smoother and so the tongue wound can recover.

If the fracture is large, the filling may need to replaced with a new filling or even a dental crown. The crown becomes necessary to protect the rest of the tooth from fracture and further damage.

You will need to see a dentist to assess the tooth and treat it immediately.