Cracked Fillings
Both amalgam and composite fillings can crack; aometimes soon after they are placed, or after the filling have been in place for many years.

Cracks can occur soon after a filling is placed if the filling is higher than the rest of the tooth surface, and most of the force of biting is concentrated on the filling.

Cracks can also occur over time, as the forces from chewing and biting affect the filling.

Small cracks also can occur at the edges of a filling. These usually are caused by wear over time. These cracks can often be repaired.

Leaking Fillings
A filling is said to be leaking when the side of the filling doesn't fit tightly against the tooth. This can allow debris and saliva to seep down between the filling and the tooth, which can lead to decay, discoloration or sensitivity.

Both amalgam and composite fillings can leak. An amalgam filling sometimes leaks slightly after it is placed. You would notice this as sensitivity to cold. This sensitivity decreases over a period of two or three weeks before disappearing altogether. Over that period, the amalgam filling naturally corrodes, sealing the edges of the filling and stopping any leaks.

A composite filling could be contaminated with saliva, which would weaken the bond between the filling and the tooth and allow for leaks. Other times, there may be small gaps where the tooth and filling meet. These gaps are caused by shrinkage when a dentist places the filling. Sensitivity after receiving a composite filling may disappear over time. If it doesn't, the filling may need to be replaced.

Fillings also can leak as a result of wear over time. These fillings should be replaced.

Worn-Out Fillings
Some fillings can last for 15 years or longer. Others, however, will have to be replaced as soon as five years after they are placed. Dr. Mona Sims can determine if your fillings are worn enough that they need to be replaced.

Clenching and Grinding
If you clench or grind your teeth, you may have more problems with your fillings. The forces placed on your teeth can lead to tooth sensitivity, and can cause fillings to wear faster than they normally would. Clenching or grinding also can cause your teeth and fillings to crack or develop small craze lines, which are fine cracks you can see if you shine a lifht on your tooth.

Keeping Your Fillings
Although some fillings can last for many years, the average life of an amalgam filling is five to seven years. Some can last 15 years. Composite fillings may not last this long.

Dr. Mona Sims will examine your fillings at your checkup visits. You may need X-rays if Dr. Mona Sims thinks a filling might be cracked or leaking, or if decay is occurring under the filling. If a tooth is sensitive, if you see a crack or if a piece of a filling appears to be missing, make an appointment with Dr. Mona Sims for an evaluation.

To help your fillings last, you should visit Dr. Mona Sims regularly for cleanings, brush with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once a day. For people with many fillings or very large fillings, Dr. Mona Sims may prescribe a fluoride gel you can use at home. The fluoride will help strengthen your teeth and prevent future cavities. Dr. Mona Sims or her hygienist can also place a fluoride varnish around the edges of these teeth at your checkup visits.

Replacing a Filling
Before removing your old filling, Dr. Mona Sims will discuss treatment options with you. It is often possible to repair an old filling instead of removing ir and replacing it completely. However, if the entire filling has to be replaced, the dentist may have to reevaluate the tooth to determine the best filling material to use. You should talk with Dr. Mona Sims about your preferences for appearance, form and function so she can select the material that is best for you.