Can I Replace an Old Filling?
Fillings can last for many years, but they’re prone to damage and wear like natural teeth. If you have a filling that’s wearing out, or a metal filling you want to replace with a more natural-looking white filling, your dentist can examine the tooth and explain your options.
Read more about replacing metal or white fillings below or contact our dentists in Mosman to discuss your own smile restoration today.
How long does a filling last?
There’s no specific lifespan for how long fillings last, as this depends on factors such as the material they’re made from and how well they’re cared for. On average:
- Glass ionomer fillings can last 5–7 years
- Composite resin fillings can last 7–10 years
- Porcelain (ceramic) and metal amalgam fillings can last around 15 years
- Gold filling can last 15–30 years
Some fillings can last for decades and others may never need to be replaced. You can help a filling to last longer by practising good oral hygiene every day, avoiding sources of stains and very hard foods, and not using your teeth to bite hard objects.
Your dentist can inform you whether replacing a filling will be beneficial. If a filling comes loose or falls out, you should contact an emergency dentist.
Why do people choose to replace fillings?
People may decide to replace an old metal or white filling for different reasons, including:
- Pain or discomfort: Toothache or sensitivity to heat and cold in a treated tooth could mean that the filling is faulty or the tooth below is infected and needs treatment.
- Worn or damaged filling: The filling may be chipped or cracked, or there may be a gap between the filling and the tooth.
- Aesthetic preference: Some people may prefer a more natural tooth-coloured filling instead of a metal filling. Old white fillings may also stain and discolour over time and aren’t suitable for whitening treatments.
- Health concerns: Some people may worry about health risks of mercury or other materials in a metal filling and wish to remove it. However, the amount of mercury contained in fillings is generally not hazardous to health.
Do I need to replace an old filling?
A filling doesn’t need to be replaced if it’s not likely to cause problems, but your dentist can discuss your options for replacing a filling for functional or aesthetic reasons.
It’s sometimes possible to replace an old filling with a white composite filling, but if the filling is larger, or less of the tooth’s structure remains after removing it, a dental crown may need to be fitted instead. A tooth-coloured crown can restore the size, shape and appearance of a tooth, but it will also cost more than a filling.
Same day crowns and fillings in Mosman
If you have any old fillings that you’re thinking about replacing, our dentists at Mosman 3D Dental can assess its condition and tell you what your options are. Call our team on (02) 9969 8610 or book a consultation today.