What Do Dental Fillings Do?

Quite simply, dental fillings protect your tooth and your overall oral health. Here is what dental fillings do:

• Reduce the damage caused by tooth injury and dental cavities/decay
• Protect the remaining tooth structure from further damage and decay
• Reestablish optimal tooth function
• Aid in the prevention of nerve damage 
• Reduce the risk for root canal
• Prevent total tooth loss
• Lower the bacterial count in your mouth

How Long Should Dental Fillings Last?

The type of material used in your dental filling is the largest factor in determining how long it should last.

• Amalgam Dental Fillings: 15 years
• Composite Dental Fillings: 7 Years
• Ceramic Dental Fillings: 15 years
• Gold Dental Fillings: 20-30 years

Other factors that can impact the durability of your dental filling include:

• Your oral hygiene and eating habits
• Decay in the filled tooth or surrounding teeth
• Injury to the tooth
• Teeth grinding and clenching

How Can I Help My Dental Fillings Last Long?

Your dental fillings do not require a lot of care outside of an excellent oral hygiene routine to last as long as possible. Here is what you need to do to protect and maintain your dental fillings:

• Avoid sugary and sticky foods
• Eat a well balanced diet that supports bone health
• Be cautious when biting down on hard foods like nuts, candy, and ice
• Brush your teeth twice a day and after meals or rinse with water after eating if you cannot brush
• Floss daily
• Use an alcohol-free mouthwash daily
• Avoid tobacco products
• Drink water instead of juice and soda
• Visit your dentist for twice yearly dental cleanings and dental exams

Biocompatible Dental Fillings At Dr. Korol Dental

Dental fillings are meant to protect your tooth from further decay and damage, but biocompatible fillings will also protect and support your overall health and well-being. Biocompatible dental filling composites are a tooth-coloured material made of resin and glass-like particles. The resin bonds strongly to the tooth structure and the glass-like particles make the fillings super resistant to wear and tear. This advanced material eliminates your exposure to the harmful elements of traditional metal amalgam (silver) fillings, but it is actually better at protecting and preserving the structure of the tooth over time.

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. Our practice is committed to a biocompatible approach to family dentistry. Book your appointment by calling (403) 245-9099 or filling out our online form.

FAQ

Q: Why should I choose a biocompatible dentistry practice?
A: Benefits of holistic dental care include:

• Safe, non-toxic treatment options
• Total body health consideration
• Comprehensive dental care
• Long-lasting, reliable solutions

Whether you require a simple dental filling or more extensive dental restorations such as a crown or dental implant, our biocompatible dentists focus on promoting your overall health as well as providing excellent dental care.

Q: What are composite resin dental fillings?
A: Resin fillings are made up of a mixture of plastic and glass or quartz filler and are a popular option for filling cavities due to their natural, practically invisible look. To learn more, read 5 Incredible Benefits of Opting for Composite Dental Fillings.

Q: How do I know when I need to replace my dental filling?
A: Dental fillings are durable and meant to last, but sometimes they do need to be replaced. Here are 4 Signs You Need To Replace Your Dental Filling.