At times, you probably hear patients complain about their tooth filling falling out and needing replacement. If you are in the same boat, you are probably wondering, “How can this happen? Aren’t tooth fillings supposed to last a lifetime?”
One of the benefits of dental fillings is they can last for a long time. The average life span on these treatments has been found to be around twenty-five years, but this number will vary depending on how well you take care of them and other factors.
Why Dental Fillings are Important
If dental decay has spread beyond tooth enamel and reaches the softer portions of your teeth, such as pulp (nerves/blood vessels), there may be no other options than to have them removed with treatment for root canal albuquerque nm or an extraction.
It is crucial that cavities are filled before they get too large as this will save time on future surgeries especially in case future treatments are needed down the line. Unfortunately, if left untreated, it can also lead to serious consequences.
When a tooth is restored, all the decay is removed and the affected area is packed with filling material. The restoration is used to reconstruct the tooth so the teeth can function as efficiently again.
Once the process has been completed, the tooth filling can help ensure bacteria won’t return to the affected area and cause further damage.
How to Make Dental Fillings Last
Looking after your dental fillings is not rocket science. In fact, it is often no different from the care required to prevent cavities from developing in the first place. To ensure your tooth fillings last longer, keep the following basics in mind:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Limit the consumption of sticky and sugary snacks (choose healthy options instead)
- Rinse with alcohol-free mouth rinse to minimize oral bacteria
- Avoid using tobacco products
- Limit the consumption of foods that can stain your teeth (i.e., tea and coffee)
- Go for water instead of acidic beverages like juices and sodas
- Avoid consuming hard foods
- Visit your dentist yearly for cleanings and check-ups
Different Types of Dental Fillings
Dentists and dental professionals use various filling materials to repair teeth. The type of material used depends on the size, location as well as cost before recommending what they feel is best for your specific situation. Frequently seen options include:
Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
Amalgam fillings are actually a mix of various metals. Resistant to wear, this filling option can withstand heavy chewing forces and will not break down or fall out like silver ceramic does when exposed to acidic conditions in your mouth.
Dentists also use amalgam for areas that are hard to keep dry since it’s less susceptible than other materials such as gold which easily becomes discolored from coffee drinks or red wine
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are a strong and durable alternative to silver. Gold has been considered the best material for filling in your smile, as noted by the American Dental Association (ADA). It’s also much more expensive than other options like steel or ceramic which can last you years without needing any maintenance at all.
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are a great option for people who want their teeth to last as long and look just as good. Porcelain matches your tooth color, so it won’t stain like composites do when you eat or drink something that stains things red (like wine). The downside of porcelains is they cost more than composite options.
Composite Resins
A composite filling is a type of restoration that can be used instead of an amalgam. They’re more expensive and do not last as long, but with good care they could potentially last up to ten years.
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