Time to Replace Those Old Dental Fillings?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dr._Ernest_De_Paoli,_DDS] Dr. Ernest De Paoli, DDS
While a dentist will help you by putting in fillings, it is not always easy to know when they should be replaced or how to know when they are worn out. Fillings, though they are highly durable, are generally not meant to last a lifetime, especially considering that many of us begin getting these fillings relatively early in life.
Of the various types of fillings, gold ones, when added properly will likely last the longest. Few dentists use this material any longer, as their applications are limited and the costs are high. Amalgam (which are silver in color) and composites (which are white) are the most commonly used today. Amalgams are less expensive and easier to apply, but composites look more like natural teeth. But neither will last forever, and there are a few things to look for to determine if it's time to replace them.
First, you should know that lack of pain does not mean that the fillings are functioning appropriately. There are numerous functional issues that can arise in old fillings that do not result in pain. So, a few of the things to look for: obviously, decay will be one, and this will be visible through an x-ray. You might also notice cracks in the filling itself, or gaps between the filling and the tooth. Any of these issues signal it is time for new fillings.
Other signs include a crack in the tooth itself, or a discoloration of the tooth. Finally, look for any signs of excessive wear on the filling; this can affect your bite, which indicates that the filling needs to be replaced.
None of these types of fillings is meant to last for more than about 4 to 7 years, so updates to your current fillings can be planned for, and this is a good idea if you want to avoid more serious dental issues associated with old fillings. These issues can include gum disease and tooth decay. It is important to get regular exams to determine the state of your fillings; waiting too long can result in losing the tooth.
One of the other advantages to switching out your old fillings for new ones is that the technology has changed in recent years and the composite or porcelain fillings are better options than may have been the case in the past. Composite fillings look a little more natural than the metal options.
The process for switching out the old fillings starts with an exam from your dentist to determine the state of the filling(s) and the teeth in which they sit. Assuming there is no underlying issue with the tooth and/or surrounding gums, the old filling will be removed and fitting will be done for the new filling. Virtually any dentist in Frisco can perform this function.
Maintaining functioning fillings is critical to maintaining overall good oral health. Old fillings can affect bite, cause deterioration of the tooth and/or surrounding gums, and result in much more serious issues.
Dr. De Paoli is, first and foremost, a gentle, caring [http://www.friscofamilysmiles.com/meet-the-doctor/]Frisco dentist who uses the most advanced, painless techniques in modern dentistry. He places great emphasis on getting to know the patient, carefully listening to their concerns and then explaining in detail what procedures would best suit that patient's needs. He is deeply concerned with providing patients with the highest level of comfort and quality care. He focuses on family and [http://www.friscofamilysmiles.com/services/]cosmetic dentistry in Frisco.
Dr. De Paoli graduated from Baylor Dental School in 1988 and has had post-graduate training in endodontics and restorative dentistry. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Dallas County Dental Society, the Texas Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. He has been serving the dental needs of Frisco families for over a decade.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Time-to-Replace-Those-Old-Dental-Fillings?&id=3618945] Time to Replace Those Old Dental Fillings?
No comments:
Post a Comment