When it comes to treating cavities, the most suitable option recommended by the dentist is dental filling; however, many people start to ask questions when they visit Alpha Dental clinic, like “Is dental filling the right option for me? How much does a dental filling cost?” and “what is the procedure like?”.
Fillings don’t last forever, and, since getting a cavity fixed can be expensive, inconvenient, and cause discomfort, patients want to know how soon they may need to have the procedure repeated.
The size of the cavity, the amount of wear and tear, and the material used to fill the tooth are the most important factors in deciding how long a filling will last. Read on to learn more about this common dental procedure.
What are dental fillings used for?
Fillings are used to fill in a tooth that has begun to decay. Your dentist will first drill away the decay and fill the tooth with a substitute substance. This substance is usually one of the following:
- Amalgam
- Gold
- Porcelain
- Composite resin
Why do dental fillings fail to last longer?
There are many reasons why dental fillings may not last as long as expected. The most common reason is that the filling was not placed properly in the first place. Other reasons include poor oral hygiene, clenching or grinding teeth, and eating hard foods. Below are a few points that might be the reason for the failure of dental filings.
Eating habits
A high-sugar diet puts you at risk of developing cavities and can cause your dental fillings to fall out or wear down over time. Sugar tends to stick to your teeth and mouth, which can lead to a build-up of bacteria and plaque.
Bruxism
Grinding your teeth in your sleep may cause your dental filling to lose and fall out over time.
Lifestyle habits
Tobacco in any form or excessive alcohol consumption will affect the life of the dental filling.
Oral hygiene
Good oral habits are essential for keeping your teeth healthy and decay-free. Without them, the dental filling can let decay seep in and infect the tooth again.
How often will I need to replace my dental filling?
Dental fillings usually last an average of 7-20 years; however, this number can differ based on the location of the filling, its size and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. Fillings take a lot of stress every time you chew because each time the act is repeated, there’s a chance for the filling to loosen or chip. If this happens, it creates a pocket for food to collect and potentially causes further decay. This is why dental visits are more important than ever! By visiting your dentist every 6 months, you significantly lower the chances of your filling becoming a major problem.
Are there alternatives to traditional fillings?
Traditional fillings are one of many options for your dental needs. Many other dental fillings can be used to meet your specific needs. Talk to Alpha Dental dentist about which type of filling would be best for you.
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF)
SDF is an antibiotic liquid that can help prevent tooth decay or sensitivity. However, a traditional filling may be necessary if the tooth has already experienced considerable decay.
Root canal therapy
Your tooth may require root canal therapy if a regular filling isn’t enough to save it. This is done by removing the inside of the tooth root and filling it with a special rubbery material.
Crowns or veneers
In some cases, crowns or veneers are necessary. A dentist can remove the part of the tooth that is decaying and cover it with a crown that looks like a tooth but is made of metal, porcelain, or resin.
If you have any dental concerns, it’s time to contact a dentist in Perth. A dental filling in a tooth that has eroded cavities can help prevent further erosion. If the filling is damaged or loose, it must be replaced immediately. Waiting too long to contact a dentist can leave the tooth vulnerable to another cavity. If too much of the tooth deteriorates, a filling may not be enough to fix it. A cosmetic dentistry Perth service like a root canal procedure and a crown might be necessary instead.
If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry in Perth, visit Alpha Dental and book an appointment.
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