You may be shocked to learn that while dental fillings are durable and can last for years, they do not last forever and need to be replaced. So, how long do they last? Several factors can determine this, including:
- the type of procedure performed
- the size of the filling
- the area being treated
- the kind of filling material used
- the patient’s oral hygiene and care
At your next appointment, we will check your fillings to make sure they are doing well. We will also look for premature wear and tear, which will allow us to replace any restoration before it breaks, become ineffective, or falls out. We will also take x-rays to check for any decay around a filling, which can loosen the filling.
We are Here for You!
Despite doing your best to avoid it, fillings may crack or fall out unexpectedly. While it is unlikely to happen if you visit your dentist regularly, accidents can happen. Over time, dental fillings can be weakened by:
- Tooth decay
- Jaw clenching and teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Eating or chewing hard foods
- Injury or trauma
- Wear and tear over time
If you ever have a filling fallout – do not panic! And do not wait; even if it falls out after hours, give us a call immediately. We will do our best to get you an appointment as quickly as we can. Meanwhile, keep your filling if you can, but do not try to put it back. Keep the affected area clean. You should still come in if you do not feel any pain. If you do not seek immediate care, it could result in pain, discomfort, and even tooth loss. Give us a call at (925) 961-5484 today!