Fillings don’t last forever. Sometimes they need replacement due to regular wear and tear. While fillings protect your teeth from damage and decay, you will lose that protection when your filling wears down or falls out and without that protective layer, your tooth will be exposed to harmful bacteria and decay. So it’s important to recognize the signs that your tooth filling needs replacement to prevent further dental problems down the road.
Why Does My Filling Need to Be Replaced?
There are several reasons why your filling may need to be replaced over time. Most often, it is the result of daily wear and tears. As you chew, your filling is placed under a great deal of pressure. Over time, it can cause it to crack, leak, or fall out. If your filling no longer protects your tooth as it should, it can cause bacteria and tiny food particles to become trapped underneath it. You’ll need to have the filling replaced to prevent new decay.
What Affects The Longevity of My Fillings?
Outside of the initial how well your filling was placed by the dentist is one of the most significant determining factors. Secondly, good home care is critical as bacteria that sit on your tooth can lead to cavities forming near the filling edge.
Following these simple at-home routines can help keep your fillings doing their job for the long haul:
- Brush twice a day.
- Floss once a day.
- Use an electric toothbrush for the best plaque removal.
- Fluoride mouthwash rinse.
Signs that your tooth filling needs replacement:
- Staining around your filling’s margins.
- Open space between the filling margin and your tooth.
- Food Lodgement in your filling.
- Sensitivity – this could be too hot, cold, or biting pressure.
- X-rays can also be a way to tell if your filling is leaking.
- Cracks or fracture lines in your fillings.
When Doubt visit your Dentist
While having an old filling replaced may sound dreadful to you, it’s a simple, one-appointment process. You will likely be numbed in this area, so you are comfortable when the dentist removes your broken-down filling. Once the filling has been removed, the tooth is prepared to receive the new filling. Your dentist places your new filling, adjusts the height to ensure your bite is correct, and away you go!
Have you noticed any of the above signs in your teeth? Has it been a while since you have seen a dentist? Remember that most big problems start as minor ones pushed off for too long. Now is a great time to have your dental health evaluated. Visit Teeth Care Centre.