Even the strongest dental restorations have a lifespan. If you’ve had a cavity treated in the past, you might assume the repair will last forever. At Millington Family Dentistry in Millington, TN, led by Dr. William R. Ludden, DMD, PC, it’s important to understand when a dental filling replacement is needed—so small issues don’t become big problems.
Why Dental Fillings Don’t Last Forever
A dental filling is intended to restore the shape, function, and strength of a decayed tooth. But like any restoration, fillings experience wear and tear over time. Whether it’s composite, amalgam, gold, or ceramic, each material reacts differently to the demands of eating, chewing, and temperature change.
Over years, the tooth structure surrounding the filling—and the filling material itself—can shift slightly. This may lead to microscopic gaps between the filling and the tooth edge. When that happens, bacteria and debris can sneak in, potentially causing new decay under the filling.
The American Dental Association emphasizes routine exams to monitor older restorations and catch problems early.
At Millington Family Dentistry, we include those checks as part of our overall approach in our Services page, ensuring each patient’s restorative work continues performing well.
Signs Your Filling May Be Failing (And Need Replacement)
It’s not always obvious when a filling is nearing the end of its effective life. But here are some red flags to look out for:
Sensitivity or Discomfort
If you experience sudden sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods—or a sharp pain when biting down—it could mean your filling is no longer sealed properly.
Visible Cracks or Rough Edges
Fillings can chip, fracture or wear down. You might feel a rough spot with your tongue, or see a dark line where the filling meets the tooth.
Discoloration or Dark Spots
Stains or dark areas around an older filling often indicate leakage or new decay beneath. Ignoring these can lead to more invasive repair.
Food Getting Stuck in the Same Spot
When fillings wear down or loosen, debris finds pockets where it can gather. If this keeps happening, it’s time for an evaluation.
A Filling That Feels Loose—or Falls Out
When a filling no longer fits snugly, it can pop out. That leaves the tooth’s interior exposed and vulnerable. If this happens, contact our team immediately at Millington Family Dentistry to prevent further damage.
What Happens If a Filling Lastly Falls Out?
A lost filling isn’t just inconvenient—it demands prompt action. Without the protective barrier, the underlying tooth structure is exposed to bacteria and decay. The well-regarded Cleveland Clinic warns that untreated exposure may lead to nerve irritation, infection, or an abscess.
In practical terms: rinse gently with warm salt water, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, and call us as soon as possible so we can restore the tooth before the problem escalates. At Millington Family Dentistry we address these issues quickly to avoid the need for more extensive treatment.
Risks Of Ignoring A Bad Filling
Putting off a filling replacement might seem harmless, but the consequences can escalate:
- Decay can spread beneath the filling, reaching deeper parts of the tooth.
- Weakened tooth structure may fracture because the filling no longer supports it.
- Infection may set in, causing pain, swelling, or abscess formation.
- Costs increase when a simple replacement becomes a root canal or crown.
At Millington Family Dentistry, we emphasize proactive care in our Restorative Dentistry section to catch those issues early.
How Millington Family Dentistry Can Help
Dr. William R. Ludden and his experienced team provide thorough evaluations to determine whether your existing restoration needs replacement. Using up-to-date diagnostic tools like digital X-rays and intraoral camera inspections, we can detect hidden leaks, cracks or decay that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
When replacement is indicated, we offer durable materials that look natural and perform reliably. Whether it’s a simple filling swap or moving to a crown for added protection, you’ll find the treatment options clearly explained and tailored to your needs.
Keep Your Smile Strong
Fillings may not last forever—but with timely checks and replacements, your smile remains strong and healthy. Don’t wait for discomfort to tell you something’s wrong. Visit Millington Family Dentistry in Millington, TN for regular check-ups and let us verify whether any of your restorations need attention.
Schedule your appointment today and give your smile the care it deserves.