Restoration procedures for dentistry are not intended to last an entire lifetime. In general, they can last anywhere from several years to a decade or more. Unfortunately, there are many reasons why these restorations may not last their intended period. When this occurs many patients are uncertain about what to do next. We’re going to talk about what you can do to help extend the lifetime of your restorations. We’ll also approach what to do when they inevitably do fail.
The Different Types Of Dental Restoration And How They Fail
For every type of restoration, there are unique ways in which they can fail. We’re going to touch on each of these below.
- Fillings – A standard restorative option when teeth have become impacted by tooth decay. Fillings are used to help reseal the tooth and protect the nerve within. This restoration will often be suggested when the cavity hasn’t advanced far enough to require a root canal. Damage requiring a filling can also result from trauma from a fall, eating hard foods, misusing our teeth, etc. These can also be the reason that the filling will fall out. You’ll need to see your dentist immediately to get relief.
- Dental Crowns – When a cavity has become too advanced to be adequately addressed with a filling, a crown is often the next step. These restorations essentially cap the tooth to prevent any additional damage. They can also help to hold the remaining tooth together. Over time it’s possible for the dental crown to become worn down or crack, or for the adhesive to fail. An immediate trip to your dentist is necessary to save the tooth. If the crown is undamaged, it may be able to be put back in place, so bring it with you. Otherwise a new crown will have to be made and put in place.
- Dental Implants – These are one of the longest-lasting and most popular restoration options. These restorations look and function almost exactly like your natural teeth and often last for decades. However, it is possible for problems to occur. The implant post may become loose, or it may become damaged from trauma. The range of restoration options for a damaged implant is broad, so consult your dentist to proceed.
- Root Canal – Root canals are an old stand-by for saving a tooth that has infected pulp. After eliminating the pulp and sealing it with gutta-percha, a cap is put in place. Sometimes the infection wasn’t completely removed. In other times the tooth has become compromised, and infection has been able to set in again. Your dentist will provide you with options for treating it.
These are the four most common forms of restorations and how each of them can fail. As you can see there is a solution for every type of failure.
Consult Your Dentist For Further Options
If your dental restoration isn’t on this list or has failed in a way not listed, call your dentist. They’ll be the ones best suited to provide meaningful and practical advice on handling your oral health concerns.
