It’s unsettling to hear that you need an filling at your regular dental exam. You may be concerned that the filling will weaken your tooth and make it easier to chip or break. In this piece, we’ll address some of the most often asked questions about fillings and the health of your teeth.
As everyone knows, cavities are a serious problem for people’s teeth and gums. They are the most common reason why adults lose teeth. However, many people don’t realise that fillings can actually weaken teeth and make them more prone to further cavities. Fortunately, there are measures you may take to lessen the likelihood of this happening. To find out more, continue on!
So, shall we?
What Is The Purpose Of Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings for a very long time have been the go-to when it comes to fixing teeth that have been damaged. Silver amalgam fillings used to be the standard treatment for decayed teeth. This silver filling was supposed to prevent further deterioration in the damaged tooth. Moreover, it was thought that the filling would prevent the rot from spreading to adjacent teeth.
While silver fillings have long been used to repair decayed teeth, recent research suggests they may only be a band-aid. Silver fillings may have not been as successful as newer white fillings in preventing tooth decay, but dentists today generally choose the latter.
Keep reading as we compare and contrast traditional silver fillings with the modern alternatives. As well as whether or not any of the fillings you’ve had done have weakened your teeth.
Dental Fillings Are Required
When a dentist finds deterioration, a filling may well be the best way to protect the tooth from breaking. The dentist might employ a drill and some local anaesthetic to do this rather simple procedure.
Signs Of Inadequate Dental Fillings
Potential warning symptoms of defective dental fillings include:
- fillings that aren’t formed or smoothed
- huge cavities filled
Fillings Made Of Silver
For many years, whenever a patient needed a filling, dentists would automatically resort to “silver” fillings, sometimes known as fillings made from grey metal amalgam. The use of silver amalgam fillings was touted as a practical and affordable solution.
Silver amalgam fillings gained popularity because they were durable and cost-effective. Silver fillings were strong enough that patients could eat anything they wanted without fear of cracking them.
Silver fillings have a long lifespan when properly cared for. Due to the ease with which silver fillings can be placed, patients need to spend less time in the dentist’s chair.
Silver fillings, on the other hand, are less appealing to some patients since they don’t look natural. In addition, a Norwegian study discovered that silver fillings are inefficient at halting the spread of decay to neighbouring teeth.
Results showed that the silver-filled tooth or teeth close to it deteriorated further in about 40% of study participants. These results suggest that even with silver fillings, tooth decay can occur if the patient does not maintain a rigors regimen of daily brushing and flossing.
However, some people have suffered adverse reactions to mercury from their fillings. To sum up, silver inlays may fail if the patient doesn’t practise good oral hygiene and get regular dental examinations to address the underlying causes of the tooth decay.
Fillings In White
Composite resin, also known as “white,” fillings, are now offered by many modern dentists. Composite resin is a plastic-and-glass-shard powder mixture. It more accurately reflects the shade and texture of the patient’s natural teeth.
Composite fillings are aesthetically pleasing and restore the tooth’s function. The dentist will prepare the resin and then apply it in phases to the patient’s teeth. After the resin has been solidified using a curing lamp and cooled, the dentist can shape the composite to the patient’s teeth.
Composite fillings attach securely to the tooth structure and fill the cavity. This allows the tooth and filling to function as a unit. Composite fillings do not weaken teeth and may instead improve their strength.
Signs Your Dental Filling Is Failing
Loss of filling substance is more than just an annoyance. Dental fillings seal off vulnerable tooth enamel from harmful bacteria in the mouth. Tooth decay, increased sensitivity, or even radicular infection might develop if a filling comes loose.
The dentist or doctor performing your exam will check for the telltale indicators of a failing filling. Damaged or loose fillings can be removed and replaced with resin composites fillings or the other material. If you’re wondering when it’s time to replace a dental filling because it’s deteriorated, this article will tell you.
Fillings can become damaged or loose for many different causes. The average lifespan of a filling is 10 years. Over time, the adhesive that keeps the metal and composite resin fixed place will wear away. Patients who grind the teeth at sleep may experience this phenomenon more quickly. Moreover, fillings are typically positioned in the molars, an area where bruxism may cause considerable harm.
Loose fillings might also be caused by accidents or trauma. Using the teeth as tools can lead to broken fillings, so try to break the habit if you already have one. Dentists strongly warn against using teeth to pry open any container, especially plastic bottles. Indicators that your fillings may need replacing include:
1. Your Tooth Contours Feel “off.”
Our tongues have been highly attuned to detect even the slightest changes in the condition of your teeth. If a dental filling has come loose or is broken, it may affect the way a patient’s tooth feels. Your tongue’s natural tendency to seek out a certain tooth may be an indicator that the tooth’s texture has changed.
If you have a filling that is loose or broken, it could be affecting your bite. Occlusion describes how your teeth fit together when you close your mouth, so any shift in the filling may become apparent then.
2. Sensitivity Has Increased.
The interior nerves of a tooth are protected by the enamel from extreme temperatures. When a filler is damaged or missing, the pulp might be exposed to painful temperatures. Increased sensitivity to temperature changes may indicate a loose filling or untreated tooth rot.
3. Discomfort During Eating
A broken or loose filling may be to blame for a tooth’s persistent discomfort or agony. The pressure from eating might irritate the underlying tissue and make the filling uncomfortable. A loose filling can also be painful if food or liquids manage to get under it.
You may experience discomfort or agony in your mouth even if you are not consuming any food. One of the more prevalent indications of a broken filling is pain.
4. Other Factors To Consider
Only a professional dentist can accurately diagnose a loose dental filling. In many cases, though, you can tell if you need a dentist just by looking at your teeth. Bad dental fillings can sometimes change colour. Separation of the filling from the tooth may also be visible.
It’s common for a terrible mood to manifest as absolutely no physical illness at all. One of the many reasons why going to the dentist regularly is crucial.
5. Getting The Most From Your Dental Fillings
Many patients ask, “How long will my filling last?”
There is, sadly, no simple solution to this conundrum. There are a variety of oral traits that set each individual apart, such as dental hygiene, dentist visits, and bite. Teeth fillings can last from five to ten years. While this is the case, there are patients who can preserve their fillings for even longer than ten years. Look no further, Bayside Dentists offers the best dental services.
Dental fillings are a very cost-effective treatment option, despite their shorter lifespan compared to veneers and dental crowns. In addition, when fillings are utilised for therapeutic purposes, many dental insurance policies cover all or part of a treatment cost.
Take care of your tooth fillings so that they last as long as possible:
- Mouthguards and other methods can help with bruxism.
- Use fluoride toothpaste & floss once a day at minimum.
- Eat fewer foods high in sugar.
- In order to lessen the amount of bacteria in your mouth, you should use a good therapeutic mouth rinse first thing in the
- Get away from acidic meals and drinks.
- Make twice-yearly trips to the dentist for checks and cleanings.
What To Expect When Getting A Filling Replaced
If you need new fillings, your dentist can remove the old ones and put in the new ones in one convenient appointment. There are a number of reasons why a tooth’s filling might need to be replaced. Tooth decay & advanced infections are only two of the dental issues that can arise from neglecting to remove fillings. An infected root canal is a serious consequence of a loose or broken filling.
It’s possible your dentist will advise you to have new fillings to avoid more tooth issues. Fillings in teeth can be easily replaced. Nonetheless, your worn tooth filling will be removed with the utmost caution.
Composite resin or metal amalgam are the most typical materials used for fillings. Composite materials are made from a combination of silica & biocompatible glass. Decayed tissues will be extracted once the old inlays have been taken out. The treated area will then be cleansed meticulously to stop the deterioration from spreading.
To guarantee a solid adhesion, a specific etching solution will be employed. Following tooth preparation, your dentist may use amalgam, epoxy material, or a combination of these materials to restore your tooth. Careful planning will guarantee aesthetically beautiful and functional outcomes.
However, composite resin requires a specific blue light to cure, while amalgam hardens quickly on its own. Composite resin fillings are used for the more visible parts of the tooth, while metal fillings are used for the back molars.
As long as the material hasn’t fully solidified, slight modifications can be done to make sure it looks good and doesn’t affect your bite. Your dentist will take their time to properly put your filling, ensuring that it will last for many years to come. Most people can have their fillings replaced in less than half an hour.
Problems That Can Occur Due To Poor Dental Fillings
If a dentist does not properly fill a cavity, the patient may experience persistent agony. While it’s normal to feel some discomfort after getting a cavity filled, persistent pain that persists for more than a few weeks could indicate a subpar restoration.
Let’s pretend the filling hasn’t been made properly. It’s possible that the filling won’t stay in place if the mixture doesn’t connect well with the tooth tissue. If that happens, the decay underneath the filling can spread, and the pain from an infected tooth’s pulp can continue for days.
In addition, if a filling is not shaped properly or its edges are not polished, it can cause pain and spread to the neighbouring teeth and gums.
If the filling is excessively high, the patient may have pain and discomfort as a result of an improper bite, which can make eating difficult. Tooth pain and poor oral hygiene are also consequences of having a filling that is too large. If that happens, the person’s teeth are at danger for decay and they may need new fillings or other therapy. If the tooth is too weak to support the filling and the filling fails, the tooth may need a crown or root canal therapy to restore its strength. A second complication of unchecked decay is the potential for heightened tooth sensitivity.
If the filling is lost and the tooth rot has progressed beyond what can be fixed by a dentist, the tooth may have to be extracted.
Dental Filling Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
1. Certain Fillings May Cause Allergic Reactions In Some People.
Mercury, chromium, beryllium, and nickel are only few of the metals that can be used in amalgam (metal) fillings. Some people may experience unwanted effects or possibly an allergic reaction from these substances. An allergic reaction could include a rash, swelling, and even burns to the body’s sensitive tissues. Bear in mind that these adverse effects are extremely uncommon.
Composite fillings, which are created from a variety of materials, have not been associated with any adverse reactions or allergies in patients. However, composite fillings are the preferable option if you have had such sensitivities before or are worried about the possibilities.
2. Fillings Are More Pliable Than Natural Teeth.
Even while dental filling materials have come a long way in the previous several decades, they are still far more pliable than the tooth enamel they are placed into. This means they might not be able to withstand the same biting and chewing forces as natural enamel. It’s for this reason that people with fillings should avoid chewing on ice, nuts, and hard candies.
3. Certain Amalgam Fillings Can Cause Tooth Distortion And Weakening.
While fillings are effective in halting the spread of tooth decay, some patients have cosmetic concerns about the potential for silver amalgam fillings to cause tooth discoloration or tarnishing.
Again, this problem is only associated with silver amalgam fillings, so if you can avoid getting one of those, you should not be concerned about it.
4. Some Fillings Necessitate Wedging Or Contouring Of The Entire Tooth.
To properly fill some cavities, the tooth’s general form may need to be adjusted by wedging or shaping. Because of this, the integrity of the tooth as a whole may be compromised. If possible, this step should not even be necessary when placing a filling in a tooth. Nonetheless, a tooth which has decay that has spread rather far must be filled.
5. Dental Fillings Are Typically Painless.
Getting a cavity filled is often portrayed as a scary and painful experience. However, most people don’t feel anything during a tooth filling since dentists are using a local anaesthetic to numb the area. The pain is normally much less severe when the anaesthesia wears off. So, if you ever need to have a cavity filled, you may relax knowing that the procedure won’t hurt.
6. Fillings Blend Nicely With Natural Teeth.
Unlike silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings were white and blend in seamlessly with your natural tooth colour. No need to stress over how those fillings will affect your grin. Your teeth can be filled without affecting the appearance of your smile.
7. Some Tooth Cavities May Benefit From Resin Ionomer Fillings.
Fillings made of resin ionomer are commonly utilised on baby teeth and other teeth that aren’t used for chewing. They don’t last as long as other choices, therefore not everyone will like them. However, unlike other fillings, this one only requires a minimal quantity of healthy tooth tissue to be removed. They’re fluoride-rich, too, so you won’t have to worry about more tooth decay.
8. Fillings Can Cause Minute Fissures In The Tooth.
As dental fillings do not have a built-in adhesive for bonding to tooth enamel, so dentists must cut tiny holes to push the filling material into place.
Some germs may be able to thrive in these fissures, which could lead to further cavities. Additionally, enamel microcracks may develop if the tooth structure is weakened. We have an exclusive list of Melbourne’s most modern and affordable dental clinic for your dental needs.
9. Another Method That Is Occasionally Utilised Is Glass Ionomer Fillings.
Dentists use glass ionomer filling, which are composed of glass & organic acid, when repairing minor decay or creating a temporary restoration.
Unlike the previous fillings, this one isn’t opaque, but rather a transparent substance. It also works well as a cement for fixing corroded metal or restoring a deteriorated crown. Also, unlike other fillings, very little enamel needs to be removed with this one.
Conclusion
It’s unsettling to hear that you need an filling at your regular dental exam. You may be concerned that the filling will weaken your tooth and make it easier to chip or break. However, fillings can actually weaken teeth and make them more prone to further cavities. Composite resin, also known as “white,” fillings, are now offered by many dentists. Composite resin is a plastic-and-glass-shard powder mixture.
It more accurately reflects the shade and texture of the patient’s natural teeth. Some people have suffered adverse reactions to mercury from their fillings. Using teeth as tools can lead to broken fillings, so try to break the habit if you already have one. Dentists strongly warn against using teeth to pry open any container, especially plastic bottles. Increased sensitivity to temperature changes may indicate a loose filling or untreated tooth rot.
Dental fillings are a cost-effective treatment option, despite their shorter lifespan compared to veneers and dental crowns. There are a number of reasons why a tooth’s filling might need to be replaced. Tooth decay & advanced infections can arise from neglecting to remove fillings. An infected root canal is a serious consequence of a loose or broken filling. Most people can have their fillings replaced in less than half an hour.
Composite resin fillings are used for the more visible parts of the tooth. If a filling is not shaped properly or its edges are not polished, it can cause pain and spread to the neighbouring teeth and gums. Dental fillings are effective in halting the spread of tooth decay. Some patients have cosmetic concerns about the potential for dental fillings to cause tooth discoloration or tarnishing. Fillings are more pliable than the tooth enamel they are placed into and might not be able to withstand the same biting and chewing forces as natural enamel.
Most people don’t feel anything during a tooth filling since dentists are using a local anaesthetic to numb the area. Fillings made of resin ionomer are commonly utilised on baby teeth and other teeth that aren’t used for chewing. Glass ionomer fillings, which are composed of glass & organic acid, can repair minor decay or create a temporary restoration.
Content Summary:
- It’s unsettling to hear that you need an filling at your regular dental exam.
- You may be concerned that the filling will weaken your tooth and make it easier to chip or break.
- In this piece, we’ll address some of the most often asked questions about fillings and the health of your teeth.
- As everyone knows, cavities are a serious problem for people’s teeth and gums.
- They are the most common reason why adults lose teeth.
- However, many people don’t realise that fillings can actually weaken teeth and make them more prone to further cavities.
- Fortunately, there are measures you may take to lessen the likelihood of this happening.
- What Is The Purpose Of Dental Fillings?
- Dental fillings for a very long time have been the go-to when it comes to fixing teeth that have been damaged.
- Silver amalgam fillings used to be the standard treatment for decayed teeth.
- While silver fillings have long been used to repair decayed teeth, recent research suggests they may only be a band-aid.
- Silver fillings may have not been as successful as newer white fillings in preventing tooth decay, but dentists today generally choose the latter.
- Keep reading as we compare and contrast traditional silver fillings with the modern alternatives.
- As well as whether or not any of the fillings you’ve had done have weakened your teeth.
- When a dentist finds deterioration, a filling may well be the best way to protect the tooth from breaking.
- Due to the ease with which silver fillings can be placed, patients need to spend less time in the dentist’s chair.
- Silver fillings, on the other hand, are less appealing to some patients since they don’t look natural.
- In addition, a Norwegian study discovered that silver fillings are inefficient at halting the spread of decay to neighbouring teeth.
- These results suggest that even with silver fillings, tooth decay can occur if the patient does not maintain a rigors regimen of daily brushing and flossing.
- However, some people have suffered adverse reactions to mercury from their fillings.
- To sum up, silver inlays may fail if the patient doesn’t practise good oral hygiene and get regular dental examinations to address the underlying causes of the tooth decay.
- Composite resin, also known as “white,” fillings, are now offered by many modern dentists.
- Composite resin is a plastic-and-glass-shard powder mixture.
- It more accurately reflects the shade and texture of the patient’s natural teeth.
- Composite fillings are aesthetically pleasing and restore the tooth’s function.
- The dentist will prepare the resin and then apply it in phases to the patient’s teeth.
- Composite fillings attach securely to the tooth structure and fill the cavity.
- Loss of filling substance is more than just an annoyance.
- The dentist or doctor performing your exam will check for the telltale indicators of a failing filling.
- Damaged or loose fillings can be removed and replaced with resin composites fillings or the other material.
- Loose fillings might also be caused by accidents or trauma.
- Using the teeth as tools can lead to broken fillings, so try to break the habit if you already have one.
- If you have a filling that is loose or broken, it could be affecting your bite.
- Increased sensitivity to temperature changes may indicate a loose filling or untreated tooth rot.
- A broken or loose filling may be to blame for a tooth’s persistent discomfort or agony.
- A loose filling can also be painful if food or liquids manage to get under it.
- You may experience discomfort or agony in your mouth even if you are not consuming any food.
- One of the more prevalent indications of a broken filling is pain.
- Only a professional dentist can accurately diagnose a loose dental filling.
- In many cases, though, you can tell if you need a dentist just by looking at your teeth.
- Separation of the filling from the tooth may also be visible.
- Teeth fillings can last from five to ten years.
- While this is the case, there are patients who can preserve their fillings for even longer than ten years..
- Dental fillings are a very cost-effective treatment option, despite their shorter lifespan compared to veneers and dental crowns.
- Take care of your tooth fillings so that they last as long as possible: Mouthguards and other methods can help with bruxism.
- Use fluoride toothpaste & floss once a day at minimum.
- Make twice-yearly trips to the dentist for checks and cleanings.
- If you need new fillings, your dentist can remove the old ones and put in the new ones in one convenient appointment.
- There are a number of reasons why a tooth’s filling might need to be replaced.
- Tooth decay & advanced infections are only two of the dental issues that can arise from neglecting to remove fillings.
- It’s possible your dentist will advise you to have new fillings to avoid more tooth issues.
- Fillings in teeth can be easily replaced.
- Nonetheless, your worn tooth filling will be removed with the utmost caution.
- To guarantee a solid adhesion, a specific etching solution will be employed.
- Composite resin fillings are used for the more visible parts of the tooth, while metal fillings are used for the back molars.
- Your dentist will take their time to properly put your filling, ensuring that it will last for many years to come.
- Most people can have their fillings replaced in less than half an hour.
- If a dentist does not properly fill a cavity, the patient may experience persistent agony.
- While it’s normal to feel some discomfort after getting a cavity filled, persistent pain that persists for more than a few weeks could indicate a subpar restoration.
- Let’s pretend the filling hasn’t been made properly.
- It’s possible that the filling won’t stay in place if the mixture doesn’t connect well with the tooth tissue.
- If the filling is excessively high, the patient may have pain and discomfort as a result of an improper bite, which can make eating difficult.
- Tooth pain and poor oral hygiene are also consequences of having a filling that is too large.
- If that happens, the person’s teeth are in danger of decay and they may need new fillings or other therapy.
- If the tooth is too weak to support the filling and the filling fails, the tooth may need a crown or root canal therapy to restore its strength.
- A second complication of unchecked decay is the potential for heightened tooth sensitivity.
- If the filling is lost and the tooth rot has progressed beyond what can be fixed by a dentist, the tooth may have to be extracted.
- Mercury, chromium, beryllium, and nickel are only few of the metals that can be used in amalgam (metal) fillings.
- Bear in mind that these adverse effects are extremely uncommon.
- Composite fillings, which are created from a variety of materials, have not been associated with any adverse reactions or allergies in patients.
- However, composite fillings are the preferable option if you have had such sensitivities before or are worried about the possibilities.
- Even while dental filling materials have come a long way in the previous several decades, they are still far more pliable than the tooth enamel they are placed into.
- This means they might not be able to withstand the same biting and chewing forces as natural enamel.
- It’s for this reason that people with fillings should avoid chewing on ice, nuts, and hard candies.
- While fillings are effective in halting the spread of tooth decay, some patients have cosmetic concerns about the potential for silver amalgam fillings to cause tooth discoloration or tarnishing.
- Again, this problem is only associated with silver amalgam fillings, so if you can avoid getting one of those, you should not be concerned about it.
- To properly fill some cavities, the tooth’s general form may need to be adjusted by wedging or shaping.
- Because of this, the integrity of the tooth as a whole may be compromised.
- If possible, this step should not even be necessary when placing a filling in a tooth.
- Getting a cavity filled is often portrayed as a scary and painful experience.
- However, most people don’t feel anything during a tooth filling since dentists are using a local anaesthetic to numb the area.
- The pain is normally much less severe when the anaesthesia wears off.
- So, if you ever need to have a cavity filled, you may relax knowing that the procedure won’t hurt.
- Unlike silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings were white and blend in seamlessly with your natural tooth colour.
- No need to stress over how those fillings will affect your grin.
- Your teeth can be filled without affecting the appearance of your smile.
- Some Tooth Cavities May Benefit From Resin Ionomer Fillings.
- Fillings made of resin ionomer are commonly utilised on baby teeth and other teeth that aren’t used for chewing.
- As dental fillings do not have a built-in adhesive for bonding to tooth enamel, so dentists must cut tiny holes to push the filling material into place.
- We have an exclusive list of Melbourne’s most modern and affordable dental clinic for your dental needs.
- Unlike the previous fillings, this one isn’t opaque, but rather a transparent substance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
Are white fillings better?
Modern white fillings are much stronger than those from several years ago. They are also bonded to the tooth to effectively seal the margin. Amalgam fillings just plug the hole and do not seal the margins or reinforce teeth. They are, however, very strong and a well-placed amalgam filling can last for several years.
Why do dentists use white fillings?
White fillings are appealing especially because they are the same colour as the teeth and therefor basically unnoticeable. Since they attach right to the tooth, patients with a broken tooth can receive a white filling to restore the tooth’s shape, which may not be an option with silver fillings.
Do white fillings cost more?
There is no huge difference in the time it takes to place either filling although the white fillings may take just a few minutes longer to place. Whilst white fillings used to be the more expensive option, these days both white and silver fillings tend to cost around the same price.
Do large fillings weaken teeth?
Any kind of filling involves removing the decay that has affected the tooth. This can cause the weakening of the tooth. Small fillings are not a concern in this area. However, the larger the filling, the weaker the tooth structure becomes.
Do fillings strengthen teeth?
This is important, as teeth were designed to last a lifetime. Since there are different types of fillings available, patients can feel confident when choosing any option, as all dental filling materials help strengthen a tooth when it is weak due to decay.
