Dental​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ fillings are made to bring back a tooth’s shape and functionality after it has decayed or been damaged, and they offer a protective layer that is supposed to last for a long time. However, as with any dental treatment, the lifespan of fillings is limited, and sometimes they need to be replaced. Here, we will discuss why your filling may need to be replaced and how awareness can help maintain your dental health.

1. Wear and Tear Over Time

The fillings, in particular, those which are put in the molars, are subjected to a great deal of the pressure that comes from the process of chewing. Usually, continuous pressure will, over time, cause such parts to wear out, crack, or even fall out. If you have felt a change in your bite or experienced discomfort while chewing, it may be time for a filling inspection.

2. The Filling Material May Break Down

One of the main concerns is composite fillings, which are more likely to deteriorate over time than other materials. These materials can degrade and lose their firmness, making the tooth more susceptible to decay. When fillings are worn down, it is essential to get new dental fillings in Amherst, OH, to protect the tooth from further damage adequately.

3. Leaky Fillings That Allow Bacteria In

Another reason for replacing dental fillings in Amherst, OH, is when the edges have grown gaps around them. Bacteria have a chance to sneak through these gaps into the tooth and cause new decay; most of the time, you are not aware of it. If you experience sensitivity or pain around your filling, it is probably due to bacterial damage under the surface.

4. Trauma or Injury to the Tooth

Accidents can come at any time. For example, if you got hurt, like by falling or getting hit in the mouth, the impact might be what dislodges or cracks a filling. In such situations, the main thing you should do is see your dentist as soon as possible so they can stop the damage from getting worse and fix the tooth. Apart from that, even if the filling looks fine, it is still a good idea to look for any invisible cracks that the shock might have caused.

5. Aesthetic Changes

Sometimes, fillings have to be changed for aesthetic reasons. Composite fillings may discolor or wear down over many years, making the smile look unattractive. If you are not satisfied with the way your fillings look, then you should discuss with your dentist the possibility of replacing them with newer dental fillings in Amherst, OH, which are more aesthetic and match perfectly with the color of your natural ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌teeth.

Don’t Delay — Contact Amherst Neighborhood Dentistry

At Amherst Neighborhood Dentistry, we provide the ideal solution if you believe a filling needs to be replaced. We offer a complete line of dental services so that you can be sure that your teeth look great for many years to come. Contact us today to book your appointment, and let’s get started on taking care of those beautiful teeth!

FAQs

What symptoms indicate that a filling may be leaking?

If you feel pain or sensitivity around a filling, it could be leaking. A visit to your dentist can help determine if that is indeed the case.

Are there any fillings that will not wear out?

No, all fillings eventually wear out from the pressure and wear they experience over time.

Do tooth-colored fillings have a higher risk of being damaged than other types of dental fillings?

Composite fillings wear out faster than metal fillings, but may be more aesthetically pleasing to some.

Do fillings create a greater chance of tooth sensitivity when they are initially placed in the mouth?

Fillings should not create a chance for sensitivity. However, if the filling becomes cracked or worn down, it could cause discomfort.

If I lose my filling, what do I do?

Call your dentist as soon as possible to avoid further decay and for a replacement.