Fillings are a trusted solution for restoring teeth affected by cavities, but they don’t last forever. Just like any dental restoration, fillings wear down over time and may eventually need to be replaced to maintain your oral health. If you’ve had a filling for several years, it’s important to recognize the signs that it might be failing. At Eunson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Chadds Ford, we help patients throughout West Chester, Glen Mills, Garnet Valley, and beyond protect their smiles with timely dental care, including replacing worn or damaged fillings.
Why Fillings Don’t Last Forever
Dental fillings, whether amalgam (silver), composite (tooth-colored), or gold, are durable but not permanent. On average, fillings can last 5 to 15 years, depending on the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and the amount of pressure your teeth endure from chewing or grinding. Over time, fillings may crack, leak, or wear away, allowing bacteria to enter the space between the tooth and the filling, which could lead to decay or infection.
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to update your old fillings, here are 5 warning signs to watch for.
1. Tooth Sensitivity or Pain
One of the first indicators that a filling may be failing is sudden or increasing sensitivity in the tooth. If you experience discomfort when eating hot, cold, or sugary foods, or feel a sharp pain when biting down, it could mean that the filling is loose or has developed a crack, exposing sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
Don’t ignore sensitivity; it may seem minor now, but it can lead to bigger issues like infection or nerve damage if not treated promptly.
2. Visible Damage or Discoloration
Over time, fillings may show visible signs of wear, such as cracks, chips, or discoloration. You may even notice parts of the filling are missing. Amalgam fillings can tarnish or darken, while composite fillings can stain, making your smile appear less uniform. Damaged fillings not only compromise aesthetics but also the structural integrity of your tooth.
If you’re in Chadds Ford or nearby areas like Kennett Square or Thornton, we offer tooth-colored fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for a beautiful, long-lasting solution.
3. Rough or Uneven Surface
A smooth finish is essential for comfortable chewing and preventing plaque buildup. If your filling feels rough, jagged, or has become uneven, it may have worn down or shifted slightly. Not only can this irritate your tongue or cheek, but it may also affect your bite and increase the risk of cavities in the surrounding area.
Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to detect even subtle changes and take corrective action before problems worsen.
4. Recurrent Decay Around the Filling
Even with a filling in place, decay can return if bacteria infiltrate the edges. This is known as recurrent decay and often occurs when a filling starts to break down. If left untreated, the decay can spread deeper into the tooth, eventually reaching the nerve and necessitating a root canal or even an extraction.
We use advanced diagnostic tools to catch these early signs before they become painful or costly to fix.
5. It’s Been Over 10 Years Since You Got Your Filling
Even if you’re not experiencing symptoms, it’s a good idea to have older fillings evaluated by a dentist. Many patients are surprised to learn that their fillings are more than a decade old and have silently deteriorated. Preventive dental care can help catch these issues early, minimizing damage and preserving your natural tooth structure.
If you haven’t seen a family dentist near Chadds Ford, West Chester, or Delaware County in a while, now’s the perfect time to schedule a dental exam with Eunson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace an Old Filling?
Ignoring the signs of a deteriorating filling can lead to:
- Tooth fractures
- Root infections
- Gum inflammation
- Pain and sensitivity
- More expensive treatments later on
Replacing a failing filling early helps you avoid complications and keeps your smile healthy and functional.
Modern Fillings: Stronger and More Natural-Looking
Today’s dental materials offer better durability and a more natural appearance than older silver fillings. At Eunson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer composite (white) fillings that:
- Match your tooth color
- Bond directly to your tooth
- Require less removal of healthy tooth structure
- Are mercury-free and safe
Whether you’re dealing with a cracked filling or just want to upgrade for cosmetic reasons, we’ll help you choose the best option for your needs.
FAQs About Replacing Fillings
1. How do I know if my filling needs to be replaced?
Common signs include pain, sensitivity, visible cracks, roughness, or dark spots around the filling. A dental exam and X-ray can confirm if replacement is needed.
2. Does it hurt to replace a filling?
No, the process is usually quick and painless. We numb the area and gently remove the old filling before placing a new one. Most patients are comfortable during the procedure.
3. Can you replace silver fillings with tooth-colored ones?
Absolutely. Many of our patients in Glen Mills, Chadds Ford, and surrounding communities choose to replace old amalgam fillings with composite for a more aesthetic smile.
4. How long do new fillings last?
With proper oral hygiene and routine dental check-ups, modern composite fillings can last 7–10 years or more.
5. Is replacing a filling covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover filling replacements, especially if there’s a clinical reason like recurrent decay or breakage. Our front desk staff will gladly help check your coverage.
Ready to Replace Your Old Filling? We’re Here to Help.
If you’re experiencing pain, sensitivity, or simply want a more natural-looking smile, don’t wait. At Eunson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide expert care in a warm, friendly setting right here in Chadds Ford. Our team proudly serves families across Kennett Square, West Chester, Garnet Valley, Thornton, and Delaware County with personalized dental services that prioritize your comfort and health.
Call us today or book your appointment online to see if it’s time to replace your old fillings and restore your smile with confidence.