Do Dental Fillings Need Be Replaced?

Dental fillings are designed to replace the loss of tooth structure because of decay. Although they can last for decades, they need to be replaced eventually. It’s especially true if you have the habit of clenching and grinding, and your dental fillings may fail.

Fillings chipped or fallen out can cause gaps between the tooth and the filling, causing an entry point for bacteria. If the seal between your tooth and the filling breaks, bacteria can work their way to the worn filling and the tooth. Because the toothbrush can’t reach that part of your tooth, decay may develop underneath or at the edge of the filling.

If left untreated, tooth decay can infect the dental pulp, resulting in the need for endodontic treatment or tooth loss.

Fortunately, you can prevent it from happening by going to your dentist’s office regularly. Problems with your existing fillings can be easily detected in the early stage, and your dentist can tell whether or not your current fillings are getting weak.

New Fillings Choices

With modern dentistry, dental material and techniques can create more natural-looking smiles. Regarding performance, several factors can influence the durability and longevity of dental fillings. These factors will include the filling material, where/how it is placed, the chewing load the affected tooth must bear, and so on.

One of the most popular dental fillings is amalgam. It contains silver, copper, mercury, and tin. These ingredients make amalgam durable and highly resistant to any wear. Unfortunately, amalgam fillings can cause toxicity. That’s why Dr. Anthony Mobasser, a holistic dentist, doesn’t use it.

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Instead of amalgam, Dr. Mobasser may recommend composite fillings. They are a combination of acrylic resin and ground glass-like particles, and it’s a common choice because of their durability and resistance to any fracture. This filling material is used in small to mid-sized restorations in areas where moderate chewing pressure is expected.

What dental filling to use will be determined by your dentist. When you visit Dr. Mobasser’s office, he’ll examine your teeth to determine if your dental fillings are still intact or need replacement. Dental x-rays may be requested to detect decay under an existing dental filling or between your teeth.

If Dr. Mobasser finds evidence that your existing dental filling has failed, he’ll recommend immediate replacement. It would be best to wait until your tooth hurts before replacing it, and Dr. Mobasser believes that early detection and treatment can reduce the risk of the need for costly procedures.

For an initial consultation about dental fillings, please call us today at (310) 550-0383

Are you looking for a cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles? If you want to improve your smile and feel more confident, look no further than Dr. Anthony Mobasser.

With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Mobasser uses advanced techniques and top-tier technologies to correct imperfections in your teeth, giving you a perfect smile.

Dr. Mobasser has amassed a long list of celebrity clientele who know they can count on him to help them put their best face forward. If you want a Hollywood smile, contact the staff at Dr. Mobasser’s Los Angeles office to schedule your first appointment.

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To make the process easier, we offer free consultations to begin the journey toward your new smile. Call us today to get started!

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