Tooth Pain or Sensitivity

When old fillings develop cracks, they can leave gaping holes that expose nerves or allow infection to set in. Accordingly, you might notice extreme pain or sensitivity, particularly when eating hot, cold, sticky, or sweet foods.

Broken Pieces Coming Off

As dental fillings age, they may no longer adhere to your teeth the way they once did. After they become loose, they can easily become dislodged in your food. If pieces of your filling break off, you may notice what appear to be bone or pit fragments in your food. This is a clear sign that your filling should be replaced at once.

New Cavities Around or Under Filling

Dental fillings only repair the cavities you have, and cannot prevent future damage. Consequently, you could need to have an old filling removed if you develop a new cavity around or under your old filling. 

Your Fillings Are Old

Most people believe that dental fillings are designed to last them a lifetime. That's not necessarily the case, as most have around a 10-15 year lifespan. So if it's been some time since you last had fillings, it could be time for a replacement.



At WestLake Dental Care, we want you to enjoy the benefits of dental fillings for years to come. Do you have old fillings that no longer function properly? Contact us and we will help you determine if it's time for a replacement.