Do I Need To Replace My Fillings?
Fillings are used to treat cavities in your teeth. Cavities are areas of decay that end up becoming small holes in your teeth. Without proper treatment, the holes can cause further damage to your teeth beyond just a cavity. Cavities can happen to anyone, and dental fillings are a very common procedure for treating the issue. While the procedure is effective and long-lasting, you may need to replace your fillings at some point. There are numerous factors that contribute to the need to replace a filling, including your oral care routine, diet, and what material is used for the filling.
Signs Your Filling Needs to Be Replaced
Below you will find some of the common signs that your fillings need to be replaced.
Pain:
If you experience any pain or discomfort, it’s time to visit the dentist. Your filling or tooth may have cracked, chipped, or become infected. Addressing the issue immediately is necessary, so contact a professional to see if your filling needs to be replaced.
Sensitivity:
When a filling needs to be replaced, you may experience sensitivity in the area. Sensitivity to sweets, temperature, and even the feeling of pressure can be a sign that it’s time to head to the dentist.
Pressure:
If you experience pressure when you are eating or bite down, it could be an indicator that your filling needs to be replaced. This is often felt in combination with pain and sensitivity.
Cracked Filling:
Depending on how well you take care of your teeth, your fillings can crack. A cracked filling can invite harmful bacteria and cause issues. Replace a cracked filling as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Missing Filling:
If your filling has fallen out, then it’s time to replace it. Just like a cracked filling, addressing the issue sooner than later is necessary to avoid further damage to your teeth and gums.
How Long Do Fillings Last?
The shelf life of your fillings depends on several factors, including your diet, oral hygiene routine, and the type of filling material used. Metal fillings tend to last over a decade. While they are less appealing aesthetically, they are strong and durable. Alternatively, tooth-colored composite fillings tend to last seven to ten years maximum. These are often preferred as they match your natural tooth color, but they do need to be replaced sooner.
How to Care for Your Fillings
In order to make your fillings last, you should care for them as you would your natural teeth. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride to help protect against any future cavities. In addition to brushing, floss at least once a day. Attending regular dental checkups every six months (or more if necessary) is vital to your oral health.
Watch your diet and focus on eating healthy, balanced meals. Limit sugary drinks, candy, pastries, coffee, and tea. These foods can mix with the harmful bacteria in your mouth and cause more cavities. When you do eat these kinds of foods or drink, rinse with water shortly after. Wait one hour and brush your teeth as brushing right away can do more harm to the enamel on your teeth. Lastly, stay away from tobacco and smoking as this can cause harm to both your fillings and your natural teeth.
Dentists in Diamond Bar
If you think you may have a cavity and need a filling, contact Diamond Bar Dental Studio! At the top dentist in Diamond Bar, the focus of Dr. Cho and Dr. Jeon is to ensure that your dental health is completely taken care of once you leave their office. If you need to make an appointment, contact Diamond Bar Dental Studio and set up your first visit today! We offer dental fillings and composite filling for teeth.
646 N. Diamond Bar Blvd.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Serving Diamond Bar since 1995
CONTACT
646 N. Diamond Bar Blvd.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
(909) 455-9979
Fax: (909) 861-6951
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