When Do The Dental Fillings Have To Get Replaced?

November 4, 2022

Dental fillings are the traditional treatment to stop the progression of dental decay. The conventional treatment removes decay with a drill and fills the cavity. A composite of materials makes up the filling. Historically amalgam has been the most popular composite of metals (silver filling). Dentists have recently chosen a resin composite of plastics and glass for a more natural-looking white filling. Both materials are strong and last many years. With time and oral conditions, the filling may deteriorate by cracking or shrinking away from the edges of the tooth. When leakage occurs, more decay takes place around the sides or underneath the filling.
This article points out signs of a compromised filling to help you identify when you need new dental fillings for your teeth. Although, there is no doubt your Rancho Bernardo dental team will find the compromised fillings at your regular examinations. We have the expertise, experience, and advanced technology to help you achieve excellent oral health. Let's move on to how you can identify that you need new fillings for your teeth.

6 Ways To Know You Need New Dental Fillings

Your Filling Is Old

The first thing to remember is the age of your dental filling. Fillings last anywhere from 7 - 12 years, depending on the materials used and your oral conditions. Fillings tend to shrink away from the sides of the tooth with age. Your dentist checks each filling at regular examination appointments. We remind you to book an examination every six months.

The Filled Tooth Hurts

Pain in a filled tooth indicates the filling needs replacement. A cracked filling will cause sudden jabbing pain when you bite down. Throbbing pain and pressure may be a sign of an inner tooth infection.

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Cracks In Your Filling

A cracked filling is usually the result of injury due to biting down on something hard or grinding and clenching due to bruxism or TMJ. Cracked fillings will leak, allowing bacteria into the inner tooth, eventually causing pain and infection.

Discoloration Appearing On A Filled Tooth

Discoloration of the tooth suggests decay. If you find that your filled tooth is discolored, book an appointment with your dentist.

Recent Injuries To The Area

Damage to fillings and enamel can result from sudden blunt-force trauma. If an injury breaks the natural tooth, the filling will need repair also. If you're an athlete playing contact sports, remember to wear your mouthguard to protect your teeth and fillings.

Increased Sensitivity

A tooth sensitive to hot or cold or something sweet is a giveaway that something is wrong. It's time to check it out with your dentist.

Tips For Filled Teeth

Fillings are strong and function well to protect your natural tooth. It is wise to avoid really hard foods on the day of treatment. You may experience sensitivity for a few days. If it continues for more than two weeks, you might need to consult your professional dentist .
Remember to brush twice daily and enjoy a healthy diet with plenty of green veggies. Too much sugar in your diet may cause decay — schedule regular appointments with your dentist.

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