6 Signs Your Dental Filling May Need To Be Replaced
Is It Time To Replace Your Tooth Fillings?
It’s not easy to tell if your fillings require replacement. However, the signs of the time will show you the truth before you even realize it. Additionally, you can see if you need to replace them by being cautious with other telltale signs like tooth pain and discoloration.
If you notice any of the six signs below, then there’s a good chance that your dental filling needs replacement. Take note of this information and visit your Glendale dentist as soon as possible.
Why You Need To Replace Your Dental Fillings
Although fillings are supposed to be long-lasting, they will ultimately need a replacement, and visiting your dentist as soon as possible for such treatment is critical.
This is because a damaged filling could lead to:
- Painful dental infection
- Gum disease
- Tooth deterioration
Therefore, you must consider the following six signs if you have dental fillings. This way, you’ll know if it’s time to replace them.
1. The Filling Has Cracks In It
While it typically takes years for a filling to crack due to wear and tear, it may happen sooner if you grind your teeth.
You may be wondering by this time how to tell if your filling has cracked. It all depends on certain conditions.
In some cases, you might be able to detect a crack in the filling, but in others, you might not be aware of one until you have x-rays taken at the dentist’s office.
It’s crucial to get your filling replaced as soon as possible since any opening in your tooth, even a tiny crack, can let bacteria in and cause decay.
If you think your dental filling is already damaged, contact an Arrowhead dentist right away.
2. Your Tooth Hurts
There are many causes for toothaches, one of which is a filling that has deteriorated and is no longer defending your tooth interior.
It typically means that you will only ever suffer pain specific to that one tooth. Additionally, exposing a tooth to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks can cause dental sensitivity.
3. Sensitivity When You Consume Cold Drinks
Even though you can’t see the crack, if your tooth is extremely sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods or beverages, there may be one there.
But what causes the sensitivity to happen?
The delicate inner pulp is exposed when there is a break in your filling. That is what causes discomfort and sensitivity.
4. Discoloration
A discolored filling may also indicate it needs a replacement. Composite resin or porcelain fillings are frequent in today’s dentistry. While composite resin fillings can discolor over time, porcelain often does not.
The darkening of the metal might also indicate that a filling needs a replacement.
5. Dental Trauma Or Injury
Fillings are designed to last but they can be damaged like natural teeth. Unfortunately, many people are unaware that they can become damaged or lost due to a facial injury. Talk to your North Phoenix dentist if you’ve had any facial impact.
6. You Have An Old Filling
Fillings typically last between 7 and 15 years, depending on the material used (amalgam or composite resin, for example). If your filling is getting old and showing symptoms of wear and strain, it’s time to repair it before it splits.
Why Are Dental Fillings So Common?
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, tooth decay affects up to 85% of adults aged 20 to 34 and 95% of adults aged 35 to 64. Each of these adults has an estimated six tooth fillings. When you consider these numbers, chances are you have at least one tooth with a filling, if not more.
As you can expect, dental fillings are the first tool many people consider when fixing tooth decay. After all, most people want to show a healthy and shiny smile.
Since dental fillings are so common in today’s lifestyle, it’s crucial to detect basic signs of damage so you can know the best time to replace them.
Contact The Experts
Contact Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead to learn more about how our dentists can help you repair a broken or cracked filling. We offer comprehensive dental services and are more than ready to assist you with any dental issue you have.Call us today!
What Patients Say About Us
“This dentistry is A1! The office is very clean & comfortable. The staff members are professional and friendly. Dr. Ceyhan is extremely knowledgeable and talented. Dr. Ceyhan took care of a complex cavity (in between my teeth), and it is as if no work had been done. My teeth, shape, and color are as they were untouched. The thorough examination and consultation were enlightening, and the hygiene education was much appreciated. This office knows what they are doing. Overall, my experience was painless and easy. Trust this office with all of your dental and cosmetic needs. They are truly worthy of your business. Thank you, Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead!”
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Dental Fillings Typically Last?
Fillings typically last between 7 and 15 years, depending on the material used. Composite resin fillings tend to be on the shorter end of that range and can discolor over time, while amalgam and porcelain fillings often hold up longer. Regular checkups let your dentist catch wear before it becomes a bigger problem.
Can A Cracked Filling Be Repaired Instead Of Replaced?
It depends on how much of the filling is damaged and whether the crack has let bacteria reach the tooth underneath. Your dentist can evaluate the extent of the damage, often with an x-ray, and let you know whether a repair is enough or whether the filling needs to come out and be replaced.
Why Do My Teeth Feel Sensitive Around An Old Filling?
Sensitivity often means a break in the filling has exposed the delicate inner pulp of the tooth to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. It can also show up as a filling nears the end of its lifespan and starts to wear down. Either way, it is worth having a dentist take a look.
Is Discoloration Around A Filling Something To Worry About?
Composite resin fillings can discolor over time, while porcelain fillings generally hold their color. Darkening around a metal filling can also be a sign that it needs attention. Discoloration on its own is not an emergency, but it is a reasonable reason to schedule a checkup and have your dentist take a look.