Name of the Condition

• Fractured Dental Restorative Material with Loss of Material
• Also known as broken dental filling or fractured tooth restoration

Summary

• This condition involves the breakage or chipping of dental restorative materials, such as fillings, crowns, or bridges, resulting in the loss of material. It can cause discomfort, affect dental function, and may require prompt dental attention for repair or replacement.

Causes

• Normal wear and tear due to chewing or grinding (bruxism).
• Biting on hard foods or objects.
• Poor adhesion of the restorative material.
• Inadequate oral hygiene leading to decay beneath restorations.

Risk Factors

• History of bruxism or clenching teeth.
• Existing dental restorations.
• Consumption of hard foods or candies.
• Smoking or using tobacco products.
• Poor oral hygiene practices.

Symptoms

• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages.
• Sharp or rough edges in the mouth.
• Discomfort or pain when biting or chewing.
• Visible gap or missing piece of dental restoration.

Diagnosis

• Visual examination by a dentist.
• Dental X-rays to assess the extent of the fracture and underlying tooth condition.
• Patient history on symptoms and dental habits.

Treatment Options

• Replacement of a fractured filling or restoration.
• Use of dental bonding or composite resins for small repairs.
• Crowns or onlays for significant damage.
• Avoidance of hard foods to prevent future occurrences.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Successfully treated restorations can last for several years with proper care.
• Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the condition of dental restorations and prevent further damage.

Complications

• Increased risk of tooth decay or infection if untreated.
• Potential for further tooth damage or loss.
• Discomfort and compromised dental function.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing.
• Use a mouthguard if grinding or clenching teeth.
• Avoid hard foods and candies.
• Schedule regular dental visits for professional cleanings and examinations.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Experience sharp pain or discomfort in a restored tooth.
• Notice a lost or chipped dental filling or restoration.
• Have persistent sensitivity to temperature changes.

Additional Resources

• American Dental Association (ADA) - Website
• Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) - Website
• Your local dental clinic for consultations and appointments.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct ICD code (K08.531) is used for fractured dental restorative material with loss of material.
• Double-check the code to confirm that it aligns with the specific condition and procedure, preventing miscoding for other dental issues.