← All explanationsFilling repair

Does a small chip mean replacing the whole filling?

Filling repair adds material to a local defect in an existing restoration while retaining suitable portions. It is an option only when the tooth and remaining restoration make repair a reasonable choice.

For training & practice ↓

Cutaway model of a lower molar with a filling; it does not establish a need for repair. — Simplified cutaway · suitability for repair requires examination

01 / 03

Assess the defect

A chip, stained margin and decay are not the same. Size, location, access and remaining tooth strength are checked.

02 / 03

Add material selectively

A suitable local defect may be repaired without removing the whole restoration. Surface preparation depends on the existing material.

03 / 03

Check function

Shape, contact, bite and surface are assessed. Repaired fillings still need cleaning and later review.

Watch the short explanation ↓

At a glance

When to ask?

After a chip, rough margin or suspected defect.

What determines suitability?

The condition of the tooth and restoration together.

What is the aim?

Appropriate care through a targeted intervention.

Knowledge in motion

Explained in 36 seconds.

Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.

Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available below.

Read the film text in English

Assess the defect
A chip, stained margin and decay are not the same. Size, location, access and remaining tooth strength are checked.
Add material selectively
A suitable local defect may be repaired without removing the whole restoration. Surface preparation depends on the existing material.
Check function
Shape, contact, bite and surface are assessed. Repaired fillings still need cleaning and later review.

Often confused

Repair versus complete replacement

Repair retains suitable parts. Replacement removes the existing filling; either approach needs a reasoned indication.

Quick answers

Is a dark line always decay?

No. Staining must be distinguished from an actual defect or decay.

Is repair always better than replacement?

No. Extensive problems or unsuitable remaining material may require replacement. The decision is individual.

Does polishing count as repair?

Polishing or reshaping refines the existing surface. Repair additionally introduces restorative material.

At the practice

For a personal discussion

Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:

Which part is defective, and what can reasonably be preserved?

Repairability can be discussed before replacing a restoration.

Have a filling assessedAppointment selection at Doctolib

Meet Dr. Niusha Barahmand Pour ↗

Learning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge

Refurbishment: Refining a restoration’s surface or contour.
Adhesive bond: Attachment between restorative surfaces.
Marginal quality: Condition of the junction between filling and tooth.

Make the distinction

Repair retains suitable parts. Replacement removes the existing filling; either approach needs a reasoned indication.

Knowledge questionWhat defines a repair?

For learning, not for assessing personal symptoms. Your answer is not stored or sent.

Every old filling is removed.
Material is added to a local defect.
Only tooth shade is measured.

View answer

Material is added to a local defect.

Suitable existing portions can remain.

Sources and context

Editorial research: 2026-11-02. General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.