Teeth fillings are direct restorations used to fix cavities caused by oral bacteria. The dentist removes the decayed part and then repairs it with a filling material. This will stop the decay from spreading and make your tooth strong and resistant to damage.
Dental fillings near you will help restore a tooth’s original shape and function. Schedule a visit to your dentist in 33706 as early as possible for the best results. If the cavity is too big, you might need a larger filling.
Types of Dental Fillings
Among the different types of dental fillings, composite and ceramic fillings are the most common. These materials are customized to match the color of your existing teeth. They are also fairly durable, making them the best choice for small-to-midsize restorations in areas of the mouth that experience moderate chewing.
Your dentist near you will choose the right type of fillings based on your unique needs and goals. Depending on your needs, you may opt for amalgam fillings made of different metals. They have a silver appearance and used to be popular. However, today, many dentists do not use amalgam fillings anymore. Another option is gold fillings, which are made of gold. A normal gold filling contains about 75% gold, with the rest made of silver or palladium. Other minor metals may also be present.
Gold fillings are more expensive but also very durable, lasting up to 20 years. Other dental fillings include glass ionomer and composite resin. Glass ionomer fillings contain glass, while composite resins are composed of plastic or acrylic. They are not as durable as gold fillings but are less visible than metal ones.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
The lifespan of a dental filling varies depending on the size of the cavity and the material. Your dentist will also consider the location of the tooth and your budget when choosing a filling material. A metal amalgam filling is ideal for molars because it is long-lasting and resistant to wear.
Your fillings should be cleaned and checked regularly to ensure their longevity. Ideally, they should last a decade or longer, but they are not guaranteed.
Regular visits to the dentist and brushing with fluoride toothpaste will help to maintain their beauty and prevent decay. Also, avoid sugary and carbonated drinks. Finally, you should report any cracks or missing fillings immediately. A filling can sometimes last for decades, especially if no underlying problems are present.
If the filling falls out, it will be painful and may need to be replaced. In such a case, you should ask your dentist in St. Pete Beach to replace it.
When Do Dental Fillings Need Replacement?
Fillings protect your teeth, but they can wear out over time. Daily chewing puts tremendous pressure on the filling, and this pressure can eventually cause it to crack, leak, or even fall out. When this happens, food and bacteria can build up and spread, causing decay. In the worst cases, tooth extraction may be necessary.
Some signs of a failing filling include a bad taste or a dark spot on your teeth. Often, you will notice the signs while brushing and flossing your teeth. Depending on your type of filling, this can be a good indicator that it’s time for a replacement.
Generally, dental fillings last for several years before needing replacement. However, they can wear out due to normal expansion and contraction of your mouth, and bacteria can grow in these areas. You can polish away surface stains, but deep stains will require replacement. Once a filling becomes cracked, it no longer protects against tooth decay and can fracture the tooth.
Another sign that your filling is starting to fail is tooth sensitivity, and it can be uncomfortable to touch or chew. You may also feel pressure on your tooth, which signifies that the dental pulp is damaged and needs replacement. Visit the dental office in St. Pete Beach for treatment if you experience these symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Dental Arts St Pete Beach for more information about dental fillings and what you can expect from the procedure.
