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 one tooth-specific tooth pain. 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!