Oral Health Articles: When is it time to Replace a Filling?

If you’ve ever gone to the dentist and were told you needed to get a filling, you’re certainly not alone. Millions of people receive fillings each year in order to replace a section of a tooth that eventually decayed. However, even with modern dental advancements, all fillings need to be replaced at some point.

The Journal of the American Dental Association (ADA) suggests that unless fillings are replaced in a timely manner, gaps can be created between the filling and the tooth, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth. Left untreated, that bacteria can result in the need of a root canal, or worse, removal of the entire tooth.

To avoid these unpleasant consequences, it’s a good idea to visit your dentist regularly so he or she can test the strength of your current fillings. The American Dental Association (ADA) makes it clear that early detection is vital because it reduces your chance of needing more intrusive and expensive procedures. Your dentist can tell you at your appointment if there has been excessive wear or cracks in a filling.

In that case, you will need to get it replaced as soon as possible. Talk to your dentist about what’s right for you and how long it will be before you should expect to replace one or more of your fillings. Fortunately, modern technology has increased the quality and appearance of fillings, so if you do need to get a replacement, it will likely last longer and serve you better than your previous ones. And with your dental plan, you will be able to get the treatments you need for a price you can afford.

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