4 Signs You Need To Replace Your Dental Filling

Signs Your Dental Fillings May Need To Be Replaced

Dental fillings offer a number of benefits including:

• Preventing tooth loss
• Limiting the damage caused by trauma or decay
• Restoring the structure and function of the tooth
• Preventing nerve damage and reducing the risk for root canal surgery
• Lowering the bacterial count in your mouth

Your dental filling may require replacement if:

1. You Have Tooth Pain: If you have pain in the tooth containing the dental filling, that can be a sign that the filling has deteriorated. This could allow bacteria to enter the tooth and cause further decay and a deeper cavity. This bacteria can cause infection and could lead to more extensive treatment requirements like a root canal or even tooth extraction.
2. You Have Tooth Sensitivity: If you are suddenly experiencing sensitivity to hot and cold, or even to sugary foods and drinks, you may have a crack in your filling. This crack could be exposing the nerves within the pulp of your tooth. Dental fillings can crack due to normal wear and tear and those who clench or grind their teeth are more susceptible to cracking. It can be hard to know your filling is cracked; it may only be apparent on an x-ray. Any crack in your dental filling can allow bacteria to enter the tooth leading to further decay or infection.
3. Your Filling Is Old Or Discoloured: Dental fillings will typically last between 7-15 years, depending on the material used. Over time, your fillings will begin to show signs of wear and tear. You may be able to feel the edges of your filling with your tongue. You may even notice a chip in your filling. If your dental filling is a resin composite, it can become darker or discoloured as it ages. If your old fillings are silver amalgam fillings containing mercury, you may want to replace them with safer, healthier composite dental fillings. Read more about the benefits of replacing your amalgam fillings here.
4. You Have Had A Mouth Injury: If you have experienced an impact injury to your face or mouth, your filling may have been chipped, cracked, or dislodged or the tooth with the dental filling could have cracked, compromising the stability of the filling. If you have sustained a mouth injury, it is considered a dental emergency and you should see your dentist right away.

If you require emergency dentistry after hours, 
call our emergency phone number (available on our answering machine) 
and Dr. Korol will get back to you promptly.
 

Safer, Healthier Dental Filling Replacement At Dr. Korol Dental

If you are experiencing any of the above signs, you may need to replace your dental fillings. Booking an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible is key to preventing infection, treating tooth pain, and avoiding further tooth decay or tooth loss. 

The team at Dr. Korol Dentistry is committed to the healthiest tooth restoration options available. To learn more about your options for dental filling replacement, mercury filling removal, and biocompatible dental fillings and book an appointment at Dr. Korol Dental to experience how a holistic approach to dental care can elevate your dental experience and optimize your overall health.

Dr. Korol and her skilled and compassionate team are committed to providing the highest quality and safest, most holistic approach to dental care, oral health, and overall well-being. We offer the newest and most effective treatments and technologies to support a lifetime of good health. Book your appointment by calling (403) 245-9099 or filling out our online form.