Dental fillings don’t last forever. If you've had a filling for several years—or even decades—it might be time to check if it's still doing its job. Worn or damaged fillings can lead to decay, cracks, or even infection if not addressed in time.

At Century Family Dental, we help patients in Westborough, MA, maintain strong, healthy smiles by offering proactive care and timely restorations. Here’s how to know when your filling needs a second look—and what to do about it.

What Are Fillings Made Of?

Dental fillings are used to restore teeth affected by decay or minor damage. Common materials include:

• Amalgam (silver): Durable, often lasts 10–15 years
• Composite resin: Tooth-colored and natural-looking, lasts about 7–10 years
• Gold or ceramic: Less common, but long-lasting and strong

Over time, chewing, grinding, and daily wear can cause fillings to weaken or pull away from the tooth structure.

Signs Your Filling May Need Replacement

Watch for these signs that your old filling could be failing:

• Tooth sensitivity when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Pain or discomfort when biting down
• Visible cracks or wear on the filling
• Dark spots or discoloration around the filled area
• A feeling that the filling is loose or has changed shape
• Food is getting stuck in the same spot repeatedly

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation. In some cases, what seems like a minor issue could expose your tooth to decay or infection, requiring more advanced treatment like endodontics.

What Happens If You Ignore a Worn Filling?

Ignoring a damaged filling can lead to serious dental complications:

• Decay under the filling, which can spread to the pulp of the tooth
• Cracked tooth, especially with old silver fillings
• Infection, leading to swelling, pain, or abscess
• Tooth loss, if the damage progresses

The earlier we catch the issue, the easier and less invasive the treatment. Sometimes, replacing the old filling is enough. In more severe cases, you might need a crown or even restorative dentistry services.

Treatment Options at Century Family Dental

We provide several options for filling replacement, depending on the location and condition of your tooth:

• Tooth-colored composite fillings for a natural appearance
• Onlays or inlays for larger damaged areas
• Crowns for extensive wear or fractured teeth
• Dental implants in cases where the tooth cannot be saved

During your visit, we’ll assess the integrity of your filling using X-rays and a thorough examination. If cosmetic improvement is also a goal, we can discuss pairing your treatment with teeth whitening for a brighter, refreshed smile.

When Should You Get Your Fillings Checked?

Even if you’re not experiencing pain, it’s wise to have your fillings evaluated during your routine dental checkup—especially if it’s been more than 5–10 years since placement.

During your exam, we’ll:

• Check for micro-leaks or decay around the filling
• Assess bite alignment and wear
• Recommend repair or replacement if needed

By staying ahead of filling failures, you avoid more costly and painful treatments down the line.

Why Westborough Patients Trust Us

At Century Family Dental, we offer customized, comprehensive dental care in a welcoming environment. From simple filling replacements to complete cosmetic upgrades, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.

Don’t Wait Until It Hurts—Book Your Exam Today

Your old filling might seem fine, but hidden problems could be brewing. Let our expert team help you decide if it’s time for a replacement.

Contact us to schedule your evaluation and keep your smile strong for years to come.