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Home For Patients Dental Blog What Goes Into Replacing Fillings?

What Goes Into Replacing Fillings?


Posted on 12/30/2018 by Dr. Brandon Cooley
What Goes Into Replacing Fillings?If you have a portion of your tooth that has decayed, you may need to have it filled. Fillings are made from a number of different substances.

The type of filling (metal, porcelain, composite, etc.) often depends on where the filling is to be placed, what your insurance covers, and other factors. Once the filling is in place, you'll likely forget it's even there.

You'll eat, drink, and talk no differently than you did before. But then there may come a day when you hear something crunch or feel something odd in your mouth. Your filling may have just fallen out, and when that happens, it's time to come see us for a replacement.

Losing a Filling

Fillings are cemented into place using special compounds, but that doesn't mean they will last forever. If you bite down really hard on a filling, it's possible that the filling will break, especially if it's fairly old.

Fillings made from the wrong material or that aren't quite the right size may also come loose. Saliva can also cause some materials such as composite resins to not bond correctly to the tooth, causing that filling to fall out.

It's also possible that you may need a filling replaced if it becomes discolored, cracks, or wears down. Bacteria may find its way under a cracked filling, leading to infection and other issues.

The Replacement Process

When you come in to discuss your filling, the first thing we will do is take a look at the area. If the entire filling or most of the filling is missing, it will have to be replaced. In some cases, though, it might be possible to actually repair the damaged filling. It all depends on how extensive the damage is and where it's located.

If the filling needs to be replaced, we will first carefully remove the old filling. The process after that is nearly identical to putting in a filling. The area will be cleaned and any decay removed. Then the space will be prepared for the filling, a liner or base will be placed (if needed), and the filling will be inserted.

If you've lost a filling, you may be in a lot of pain. Don't wait to come in and have the tooth looked at. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Get in Touch!


PHONE
(425) 249-3509

EMAIL
everett@cooleysmiles.com

LOCATION
10627 19th Ave SE, Suite B
Everett, WA 98208-5147



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