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A dental filling (also called a dental restoration) may last many years before it needs to be replaced. However, there are a number of reasons that fillings may need to be replaced. Constant stress from chewing, grinding and clenching teeth may eventually cause a filling to chip, crack, wear down, or fall out. A filling may also need to be replaced if the surrounding tooth structure becomes decayed.
Nothing lasts forever. In an ideal world your teeth would not have decayed or broken, and fillings or other restorations would not have been necessary.
Fillings can wear, fracture, chip, fall out and be subject to recurrent decay. In such situations replacement of the defective restoration is necessary to prevent further problems including more decay, tooth fracture, nerve problems, gum inflammation, sensitivity and pain.
Fillings can wear, fracture, chip, fall out and be subject to recurrent decay. In such situations replacement of the defective restoration is necessary to prevent further problems including more decay, tooth fracture, nerve problems, gum inflammation, sensitivity and pain.
Dental fillings need to be replaced when they have been in the mouth for so long that a gap opens up between the filling and the tooth, allowing decay in. Watch dental expert Jonathan Levine, DMD, explain the process and why replacement is necessary.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.