FILLING REPLACEMENT FOR MAINTAINING A CAVITY FREE TEETH
A filling replacement is a procedure that generally consists of refilling a cavity that was treated before with filling materials due to the wearing off or damage of the initial filling.
Many people undergo dental filling yearly, but only a few go for filling replacements because they think fillings should last forever or are probably just scared of the hassle that comes with fillings. The American Dental Association recommends filling replacements when old filling durability has elapsed to avoid over-usage, resulting in damaging the filling as we eat, drink, and grind the teeth.
The dentists’ goal in filling replacement is to remove damaged old filling and cover it up with the desired filling choice. Filling replacement ensures that the cavity and infection do not resurface.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING FILLING REPLACEMENT?
During a filling replacement, the dentist undergoes more work to remove the old and broken filling from the teeth. After this, the replacement is carried out with the same routine followed by the initial filling.
Before filling replacement, you would want to choose a more durable option to avoid visiting the dentist often for the same procedure.
An amalgam Fillings is a very durable option as it is made of copper, tin, silver, and mercury. It is pressure-resistant and long-lasting.
A composite filling is also very popular and durable. It consists of a mixture of glass ionomers and acrylic resin and has the advantage of being the same color as the teeth. It is the most recommended option for teeth in visible areas of the mouth. It, however, doesn’t last as much as Amalgam filing.
It is important not to hesitate when carrying a filling replacement because the longer it is left unchanged, the more quickly it will wear off, thereby exposing the cavity and leaving the tooth open to bacteria and worse dental complications.
SIGNS THAT SHOWS THAT A FILLING REQUIRES REPLACEMENT.
Most times, people who have had fillings feel that cavity fillings are a lifetime treatment without understanding that some fillings last longer than others, and usage over time makes it wear off. The wearing-off only gets worse if the filling is not appropriately cared for.
There are some signs to look out for to know if a filling replacement is required, and we will be taking a look at them.
FOR COSMETIC PURPOSES.
Overtime usage can cause filling to look darker or stained, mostly due to food and beverages consumed. These stains take years before they become visible, so once they start appearing, it is pretty much time to have a replacement.
A FILLING THAT FALLS OFF.
This only happens when the filling is not in its last stage and has begun to wear off.
At this state, a replacement is required as cracks of the worn-out filling may be swallowed when eating or when biting a hard substance.
PAIN
When a filling is due for a replacement, you may start feeling pains while eating or chewing. This condition is usually caused by the grinding of the teeth, which breaks the filling. At this stage, a filling replacement is urgently needed.
A FILLING REPLACEMENT
A filling can be broken or cracked and causes no immediate pain, making a patient not see the need for a replacement. However, a replacement should be carried out as the cavity may become exposed and open to bacteria and infections.
The American Dental Association recommends metal or Amalgam filling as they are very durable and safe and are long-lasting if they are adequately cared for.
If your fillings replacement has begun to wear off, you should first visit your dentist for fillings replacement. If you do not have a personal dentist, you can search for Fillings replacement near me to get a local listing of dental clinics near you and book an appointment with a dentist.
If you want a reputable dentist with experience in filling replacement for the best result, by booking an appointment with a dentist in Encinitas, CA, searching for a Filling replacement in Encinitas, CA.