5 Reasons to Replace an Old Dental Filling

If you’ve ever had a cavity, you know the fix usually involves a dental filling. That can save your mouth from further tooth decay and a more serious infection while preventing the need for a root canal.

While a filling can solve the problem, it doesn’t last forever. Fillings wear out, and when that happens, you need to get new ones. 

Here are five reasons to replace an old dental filling, courtesy of the team at Smile Design Manhattan in New York City.

Your tooth has new decay

You got your original filling because of decay, but that doesn’t prevent new decay from causing a new cavity. If that happens, you need a new filling so your tooth can remain strong and healthy.

The old filling is damaged

Occasionally, an old filling becomes cracked or broken. Fillings are made to last a long time, but damage can sometimes occur. If you’ve cracked or chipped your filling, you need a replacement to preserve tooth function.

You want to enhance your appearance

Older fillings are made mostly of metal. They start out shiny but become darker and more noticeable over time. You might be self-conscious about your smile.

Modern fillings use a composite material that can be shaded to look exactly like your natural teeth. With a replacement filling, no one can tell you have a filling.

On another note, some metal fillings contain mercury, which can cause health issues. Replacement is a good option in those cases.

The filling has lost its seal

Over time, your old filling can wear down and loosen as a result of daily use and the expansion and contraction that occurs with temperature changes in your mouth (cold drinks, hot food, etc.).

A loose filling or cracked tooth opens the door for bacteria to enter, which can cause decay and infection. Replacing your old filling with a new one reestablishes a protective seal.

You have tooth pain

Tooth pain is likely a sign of infection in the pulp or root of your tooth. Infection in either location requires removing the old filling to provide access to fix the problem. You may need a root canal, a new filling, and a crown to preserve your tooth.

If you’re due for a new filling or would like to take steps to prevent dental fillings in the first place, our team at Smile Design Manhattan can help. To get started, call our Midtown office at 646-278-4579 or book your appointment online today.