A dental filling is a common dental procedure that helps protect teeth after cavities have formed due to dental decay. The process of getting a filling is pretty straightforward; the decayed part of the tooth is removed, the area is cleaned, and the indent/hole is filled with a dental material that hardens and bonds to the tooth. That said, a common misconception is that fillings are indestructible or cannot get damaged. In fact, fillings might need to be replaced if they get damaged or fall out. In this article, we will cover a few reasons why dental fillings might fail over time.
Can Cavities Recur/Reform?
Yes, it is actually very common for patients who do not maintain their oral health for cavities to develop cavities. A filling replaces a section of the tooth, and in the natural groove between the filling and the tooth, bacteria can grow and eventually reform a cavity. This can cause the filling to loosen and fall out, exposing the inside of the tooth. If you ever notice that a filling is loose or moving in place, you should call a dentist for a quick appointment to have the filling replaced. Likewise, some patients experience a “leaking filling,” which is where liquid gets between the filling and the tooth and then leaks out over time. A leaking filling is another sign you need to see a dentist quickly.
Do Different Filling Materials Last Longer Than Others?
Yes. The material used for your filling can impact its durability. In the past, metal fillings were often the most common material used in fillings because of their durability. In recent years, most dentists use dental composites that are tooth-colored and highly durable. Common dental fillings can include resin composite, which uses resin as a base and is mixed with powdered quartz, silica, or glass. Dentists tend to use highly durable filling materials like composite materials, so the larger factor in how long a filling will last is usually based on how a patient takes care of their teeth. If you have a dental filling, crown, or bridge, it should make you even more litigious when it comes to see a dentist twice a year. During those cleanings and exams, your dentist can notice if those fillings are starting to loosen or if cavities are forming. In fact, in some cases, your dentist might notice that decay is just starting to form, which can be reversible with professional cleanings and fluoride treatments.
Schedule Dental Visits in Swampscott, MA
Whiting Dental Arts in Swampscott, Massachusetts, provides dental treatments for patients of all ages. If you need help with a cleaning, filling, bridge, or other dental treatment, please give us a call to get started