If you have ever had a cavity, a dentist in Nanaimo likely used a special material to fix your tooth. This material is called a composite filling. It is a mixture of plastic and glass that matches the color of your teeth. Because it looks so natural, most people prefer it over the old silver metal fillings. But a common question people ask is: how long do these fillings actually last?
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are made from a mix of resin and small glass particles. A dentist places this material inside a cleaned cavity. Then, a special light is used to harden it. This process helps the filling bond to the tooth.
These fillings are strong and look natural. That is why many people choose composite fillings near you instead of metal fillings.
How Long Do They Last?
On average, composite fillings in Nanaimo last between 5 and 10 years. However, this is not a strict rule. Some fillings can last much longer if a person takes very good care of their mouth. Others might fail sooner if they are under a lot of pressure.
Several things change how long a filling stays strong:
- Location: Fillings on the back molars do a lot of heavy chewing. This pressure can cause them to wear down faster than fillings on front teeth.
- Size: A very large filling that covers most of the tooth might not last as long as a tiny one.
- Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing every day keeps the edges of the filling clean. This prevents new decay from forming under the material.
- Habits: People who grind their teeth at night or chew on ice might crack their fillings.
Signs Dental Filling Needs Replacing
It is important to know when a filling is no longer doing its job. A filling that is loose or cracked can let bacteria get inside the tooth. This can lead to an infection or a painful toothache. Here are the main signs dental filling needs replacing:
- Sensitivity: If a tooth feels sharp pain when drinking cold water or eating hot soup, the filling might be pulling away from the tooth.
- Pain When Biting: If it hurts to chew, the filling might be cracked or “high,” meaning it hits the top teeth the wrong way.
- Visible Cracks: Sometimes, a mirror shows a small dark line or a chip in the filling material.
- The Filling Falls Out: This is an obvious sign! If a piece of the resin comes out while eating, it is time to see a dentist near you.
- Discoloration: If the edges of the filling look dark or yellow, it might mean the seal is broken, and bacteria are getting underneath.
Visiting a Dentist for Help
Regular checkups are the best way to catch a failing filling before it causes a big problem. During an exam, a professional uses a special tool called an explorer to check the edges of the filling. They might also take X-rays to see if there is any decay hidden under the composite material.
If you are worried about an old filling, searching for composite fillings near you can help find a local clinic to fix the issue. Replacing a filling is usually a quick process. The dentist numbs the area, removes the old material, cleans the tooth, and puts in a fresh layer of composite resin.
How to Make Composite Fillings Last Longer
Taking care of fillings is simple but very important. Here are a few tips:
- Brush teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to clean between teeth
- Avoid chewing hard objects like ice
- Limit sugary foods and drinks
- Visit a dentist regularly for checkups
- Use a night guard if there is teeth grinding.
These steps help to protect both natural teeth and composite fillings.
Restore Your Smile with Composite Fillings at Uplands Dental Clinic.
We use composite fillings to treat cavities and repair small tooth damage with tooth colored resin. Our dentist removes decay, cleans the tooth, and places the filling to restore shape and function. This treatment helps protect teeth and supports good oral health. Book an appointment with us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it hurt to get a composite filling replaced?
No, the process is very similar to getting a first filling. The area is numbed with local anesthesia, so no pain is felt during the procedure. There might be slight sensitivity for a day or two afterward.
Why do composite fillings turn yellow over time?
Composite resin is a type of plastic that can pick up stains from food and drinks like coffee, tea, or soda. Unlike natural teeth, fillings cannot be whitened with bleach, so they may eventually need to be replaced to match the rest of the smile.
Is a composite filling better than a silver one?
Composite is often preferred because it looks like a real tooth and bonds to the tooth surface. Silver fillings (amalgam) are very strong, but they require more of the healthy tooth to be removed and do not look natural.
Can a cavity form under an old filling?
Yes. If the seal between the tooth and the filling breaks, bacteria can get inside. This is called recurrent decay. It is dangerous because it is hard to see without an X-ray.
