You may be surprised to know that dental filling actually do NOT last forever. Just like veneers, dental fillings are durable but they get worn out overtime. It is important for you to regularly make appointments with Dr. Nasr or Dr. Saenz for check ups on your fillings.
What Is A Dental Filling
A dental filling is also known as a dental restoration. Dental fillings are intended to replace teeth which have been lost to decay. Dental fillings can last a long time, typically 8 to 10 years. Eventually, however, they will need to be replaced.
If you’re wondering how long do dental fillings usually last, it depends on a number of factors. For example, the material used to make the filling, the size of the dental filling, the procedure being performed, the kind of care and oral hygiene routine the patient carries out.
What Causes A Dental Filling To Fail
Eating and drinking is the main reasons why a dental filling fails. Even clenching or grinding your teeth constantly may cause your dental filling to become loose, chipped and eventually it may break apart. This can leaves places for food particles to get stuck. The loose dental filling may then provide a passageway for decay causing bacteria to attack the dental pulp.
The decay causing bacteria may cause decay even around the dental filling and even underneath it. Once it reaches the dental pulp, the need for a root canal treatment becomes extremely crucial. Otherwise, the bacteria may find a fresh spot to enter and infect your blood stream. Such bacteria cannot be removed by simply brushing your teeth or rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash.
Regular Dental Examinations
Getting regular dental examinations is important. It can help detect problems with your dental filling at an early stage. Treatment can then be carried out just as early. You yourself will not be able to tell whether your dental filling is getting worn out. Your dentist will carry out some tests and a checkup to check whether there are problems with the dental filling.
When the dentist examines your teeth, the first thing he/she does is to check whether the dental filling has broken or become chipped or worn out in any way. The dentist uses an instrument called an explorer to help determine whether the filling has been worn out and whether it is sealed or not.
The dentist also carries out dental x-rays known as radiographs. Radiographs are done to help detect whether there is decay forming between dental fillings, around the edges or under the dental filling. If the dentist is successful in finding a broken dental filling or decay underneath or around it, you may need to get your dental fillings replaced as soon as possible.
To ensure that your dental fillings do not need to be replaced, contact The Perioclinic for an appointment today!