A dental filling may last many years,.However eventually all filling needs to be replaced.Constant assault from eating and drinking or stress from clenching or grinding eventually may cause dental filling to fail.
Bacteria cause tooth decay .Fillings that have worn away,chipped ,cracked or fallen out may leave gaps between the tooth and filling that can provide entry point for bacteria.
Bacteria are abundant in mouth and are commonly found in saliva and dental plaque,a thin film forms on teeth and gums.If the seal between the tooth and filling breaks down food particles and decay causing bacteria can work their way between worn filling and tooth.These bacterias cannot be removed easily with toothbrush or other means.Decay may develop along the edge of filling or underneath.
Decay which is undiagnosed and untreated can progress to infect dental pulp(which contains tooth's nerve and blood supply) results in need for root canal treatment.
REGULAR DENTAL EXAMINATIONS ARE IMPORTANT because prolbems with existing fillings generally can be detected in early stage.Although you may not be able to tell that your filling is worn,your dentist can identify weaknesses in it ,during a regular check up.
During examinations .the dentist determines if existing fillings are intact or if any crack ed or worn away.
CHOICES FOR NEW FILLING:
Advances in dental materials and technique .offer new ways to create more pleasing smiles more naturally.
The ultimate decision about what to use is best determined by patient in consultation with dentist.