You may have heard about dentists making the switch from metal fillings to tooth-colored, composite-resin fillings in recent years. Not only are these better at protecting your teeth from food and grinding, they blend in much more easily thanks to your dentist. They can be tinted to match the exact shade of your remaining tooth.
However, fillings are not indestructible. They can still wear down over time and will eventually need to be replaced to withstand the regular forces in your mouth. That’s why your dentist is here to explain the ins and outs of dental fillings in Pasadena.
What Do Composite Dental Fillings Do?
Dental fillings are designed to replace tooth structure lost from decay. While they can last for many years, they will eventually need replacement as you consume food. They may also need sooner replacement if you grind or clench your teeth due to bruxism. Wearing a nightguard can reduce this wear significantly, so ask your dentist in Pasadena for more information.
What Happens When They Get Damaged?
Like many restorative tools, dental fillings can chip, crack, wear away, and even fall out after enough time. This can leave gaps and holes in your remaining structure, putting your oral health at risk. Food debris and bacteria can easily get inside the tooth, accelerating tooth decay.
Once bacteria enter this part of the tooth, regular at-home care cannot remove it. Decay can also develop along the sides of fillings or underneath them, so getting them checked by a dentist regularly is necessary. If decay goes untreated long enough, it can progress to the dental pulp and become infected. This area contains the nerve and blood supply, two very important components in sustaining the life of your tooth. A root canal or tooth extraction may be needed to clean the area as well. However, by using these tips, you’ll avoid that situation altogether.
How Do I Make Them Last Longer?
By visiting your dentist in Pasadena, you can catch early problems with your dental fillings. Only your dentist can tell if your filling is worn, so by visiting your dentist every six months, you’ll be well-protected. During the exam, they’ll use a dental tool called an explorer to detect any worn spots around the filling’s edge. Through this method, they’ll confirm whether it needs replacement.
The other way is to brush twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste for two minutes each and floss once a day. This will work to remove all plaque from around your teeth and prevent decay from forming. If you’re experiencing symptoms of damaged fillings, such as chronic tooth pain or sensitivity, don’t wait to see your dentist.
The earlier you make it to your dentist, the sooner they can save your dental fillings in Pasadena. Schedule an appointment with them today to keep them intact!
About the Author
Dr. Kimber Holmes has been practicing in Pasadena for over 20 years with no signs of stopping. After graduating from the University of Texas Dental Branch to earn her Doctor of Dental Science, she continues to attend post-graduate study courses to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in modern dentistry. To learn more about her practice and treatments for tooth-colored fillings, contact her at (713) 946-5171 or visit her website.