Reviewed By Dr. Tyler N Davis, DMD
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Dental restorations support long-term oral health, but they do not last forever. Daily chewing, changes in the bite, and the natural aging of dental materials eventually affect even the strongest fillings, crowns, and bridges.
You might notice sensitivity, a rough edge, or a shadow near the gumline. These small changes often mean older dental restorations are wearing down and may need attention to protect the underlying tooth.
Table of Contents
Why Dental Restorations Wear Down Over Time
Even well-placed restorations experience natural changes. Over time, everyday chewing forces and normal use cause restorations to wear down or lose their seal.
Common reasons restorations need updating include:
- Natural wear and tear: Chewing gradually wears down fillings and crowns. Amalgam fillings may expand and contract with temperature changes.
- Changes in your bite: Grinding or clenching puts extra stress on restorations.
- Microscopic gaps at the edges: Small openings allow bacteria to enter, leading to decay beneath older materials.
- Previous decay or large restorations: Teeth with big or repeated fillings are more fragile and more likely to crack.
Signs Your Fillings Need Replacement
Composite fillings are durable, but they can loosen or wear down as they age. Watch for these signs that a filling may need to be replaced:
- New sensitivity to cold or sweets
- A rough, chipped, or sharp edge
- Dark staining or a shadow around the filling
- Food getting trapped in the same area
- Visible cracks in the filling or surrounding tooth
- A filling that feels loose or falls out
During your exam, your dentist evaluates whether a filling can be repaired or needs to be replaced entirely.
Signs A Crown Needs To Be Replaced
Crowns protect the underlying tooth, but the edges can lose their seal as gums recede or materials age.
Watch for:
- A dark or shadowy line near the gumline
- Sensitivity when chewing or biting pressure
- Chips or cracks in the crown material
- Gum recession exposing the margin
- Any looseness or shifting when you bite or press on the tooth
A crown that does not fit well may allow bacteria underneath, so updating it helps prevent future problems.
When an Implant Restoration Needs Attention
Implant restorations—including single implant crowns, implant-supported bridges, and full-arch restorations—are designed to be stable and long-lasting. Over time, the restoration itself may show signs of wear, loosen slightly, or no longer fit as precisely as it once did. Bite changes, aging materials, or natural changes in the gum tissues can all affect how well an implant restoration functions.
You may notice changes such as:
- A crown, bridge, or full-arch appliance that feels slightly loose
- Movement when chewing or biting
- Gaps forming near the gumline
- Worn or chipped areas on the restoration
- Difficulty chewing on one side or uneven pressure
Updating the restoration helps maintain a proper fit, supports everyday function, and protects the health of the surrounding tissues.
Our Approach to Replacing Older Dental Restorations
As dental materials age, they may loosen, lose their seal, or no longer fit as well as they once did. Changes in the bite, normal wear from chewing, and the natural aging of the supporting tooth can all make a restoration less effective over time. During a dental exam, we evaluate each restoration carefully, looking for changes in fit, comfort, and the health of the tooth underneath.
Modern dental materials and technologies continue to improve, which means updated restorations often offer a stronger seal, better durability, and a more precise fit than older ones. When a replacement is needed, we use these advancements to restore proper function and protect the tooth for the long term.
Schedule A Visit At Power Road Dental Care
If you have noticed changes in the fit or comfort of a restoration, our team can assess it and determine whether an update would help protect the tooth.
If you are in the Phoenix East Valley, book an appointment at our dental office in Mesa, AZ. Call (480) 664-1438 or visit us at 2500 South Power Road, Suite 102, Mesa, AZ.
FAQs
When should a filling be replaced with a crown?
This misconA filling should be upgraded to a crown when too much tooth structure has weakened or when cracks appear that a simple filling cannot reinforce. A crown covers the full tooth, protects it from further damage, and restores strength for long-term chewing.
Why do dentists want to replace old fillings?
Dentists recommend replacing old fillings when they leak, crack, discolor at the edges, or no longer seal the tooth properly. Worn fillings allow bacteria inside the tooth, increasing the risk of decay, fractures, and eventually the need for root canal treatment.
Where can I find a restorative dentist near me?
If you are in Mesa or the East Valley, Power Road Dental Care provides restorative treatments such as composite fillings, dental crowns, and bridge evaluations to keep your smile healthy and functional.