If your teeth ever fell victim to decay, you may have received a filling. Fillings give your teeth back their strength and work to protect what remains of the teeth from further decay. Even so, they do need to be replaced from time to time.
They should last about 5 to 20 years, depending on the what type of filling they are. They do get worn out by eating and drinking, but this is factored into their life expectancy. Clenching and grinding teeth, which is not really good for natural teeth, wear fillings down faster. Tooth decay can get past fillings sometimes, especially if proper care is neglected, and slash their lifespan.
If you want to keep an eye on your fillings, then visiting the dentist can help you with that. Our dentists can spot issues more easily through regular checkups.
Our dentists can check your fillings using a tool called an explorer. The explorer should cause you no discomfort and helps our dentists notice any wearing or fracturing on the edges of the filling.
They may also take some X-rays. The X-rays can reveal any signs of tooth decay under the filling.
If any of these signs are present, then our dentists can resolve the issues. The fillings can be replaced, and the dentists can help you know how to make them endure. They can also deal with any decay so your teeth can be guarded against further damage.
If you ever experience a problem with a filling, please come see us at Oneco Dental Care in Sarasota, Florida. Drs. Askowitz and Paralta are here to help you. You need only call 941-751-4900 to get in touch with us.