Dental fillings with proper care can last for many years, but eventually, all fillings must be replaced. A filling may fail due to stress from grinding or clenching or the regular assault from drinking and eating.When fillings do become cracked, worn away, chipped or otherwise compromised, they can become an entry point for harmful bacteria. If the seal between the filling and the tooth deteriorates, bacteria and food particles can become lodged between the tooth and the worn filling. A toothbrush alone cannot easily remove the debris or bacteria, and decay may form underneath the filling or along its edge. Without treatment, decay can infect the dental pulp, leading to a root canal or possible tooth loss.
If your dentist detects cracks or weakness in an existing filling, you may need a replacement. Traditionally, many dental fillings were done with amalgam or commonly referred to as ‘metal fillings.’ Advances in dental techniques and materials have made it easier than ever before to have dental fillings that create natural-looking smiles, and there are many types of tooth color fillings that can be used to repair decayed or damaged teeth.
[media-credit id=11 align=”alignleft” width=”209″]
[/media-credit][media-credit id=11 align=”alignleft” width=”209″]
[/media-credit]
When replacing older or worn amalgam fillings, dentists today prefer to use amalgam-free dental fillings made of glass ionomers or composite materials instead. These tooth-colored materials create comfortable, safe, effective, durable and natural-looking restorations that will last for many years.
The decision about what material to use to replace old dental fillings is best determined by the dentist after consultation with the patient. Before you have your old dental fillings replaced, discuss all your options with your dentist, including amalgam-free fillings, and your smile can have both a natural healthy looking appearance and the oral health protection that comes with new fillings.
