There is no single number of how many times you can have a filling replaced. Usually, we will stop replacing the dental filling after the hole becomes too large. Once you have more filling material than natural tooth material your tooth no longer holds enough strength.
In general, adults develop an average of three cavities during their lifetimes. This means that the average adult has three or four fillings in their mouth. Some patients end up with ten or more fillings depending on how well they care for their teeth.
Most dentists will not perform more than 4 fillings in one sitting. Technically there is no limit to home many fillings can be given at a time. However, we do not recommend doing more than four at one time.
Therefore, it is important to consult with a dentist near you before having more than three fillings placed in a single tooth.
So if you have one dental filling maybe it's OK. "But if you have more than eight dental filings the potential risk for adverse effect is higher." People with numerous dental fillings who are also exposed to mercury from other sources - such as seafood or work environments - are most at risk.
Dentists may fill as many cavities as the patient is comfortable with having filled. With this being said, in most cases, dentists do not recommend having more than 3 cavities filled in one sitting.
People who require multiple fillings often ask how many tooth fillings can be done at once. Technically, there is no limit to the number of filling you can get in one session. However, dentists do not recommend having more than three fillings at a time. Your mouth needs time to heal after the dental fillings procedure.
Here are several factors that may contribute to a high cavity rate: Diet – “Sip all day, get decay.” If you sip, graze or snack on anything sugary throughout the day, your chances of getting cavities increase by quite a bit.
The average American adult has three fillings. But if you tend to get a lot of cavities, you may be wondering why. Are you more cavity-prone than other people?
Some people may fear that because fillings are a substance placed into your tooth, that fillings can weaken your tooth or cause it to crack. A filling that is old or was inadequately placed can indeed cause these problems, however, they are avoided through routine check-ups and going to an experienced dentist.
Young adults (20-39 years old)
Depending on oral health and prior dental care, the number of fillings in young adults can vary greatly. However, the frequency of cavity fillings for young adults is typically between 4 and 8.
For example, if you had a filling made with gold or another metal, you can usually start eating right away. However, if your filling was made with a composite resin or another type of tooth-colored material, it's important to wait at least 24 hours before chewing on anything hard.
Yes, your dentist can put you to sleep during treatments. However, your dentist will begin looking at conscious sedation options first. Conscious sedation involves using medications to help you relax during a dental procedure. It's ideal for patients who feel anxious, nervous, or cannot sit still during dental visits.
Insufficient oral hygiene. The quickest way to welcome cavities is to slack on dental care. Not brushing or flossing regularly, and not using mouthwash or brushing your tongue will leave your teeth vulnerable to decay. Brushing your teeth for less than two minutes each time can also lead to cavities.
The average American adult has three dental fillings.
Dental fillings are unfortunately very common in the UK With 84% of adults having at least one or more fillings and each of those adults having on average 7 fillings.
Tooth shape, alignment, and composition.
Teeth with deep grooves in them are more likely to trap foods and develop cavities. Similarly, misaligned teeth may collect food particles and bacteria between them. If your genes have cursed you with thin tooth enamel, you may also be more prone to develop cavities.
Though good oral hygiene that includes brushing and flossing helps in preventing cavities, you may still get cavities. The reasons can be many, like the spaces between teeth that easily trap food, consuming too much cavity-causing foods and beverages, avoiding regular professional-level cleanings and checkups, etc.
Getting holes filled might require ten minutes to 1 hour per tooth, depending on the size of the cavity and its location. In some cases, you might even need two appointments with the dentist near you to fill the hole in your tooth, especially if tooth decay removal compromises the integrity of the tooth.
Once you have more filling material than natural tooth material your tooth no longer holds enough strength. In this instance, you might need an inlay, onlay, or dental crown to protect your tooth. You might also need a restoration instead of filling replacement if your tooth has several fillings in the same tooth.
When cavities and decay become severe, you may have: Pain that interferes with daily living. Weight loss or nutrition problems from painful or difficult eating or chewing. Tooth loss, which may affect your appearance, as well as your confidence and self-esteem.
If the seal between the filling and tooth enamel breaks down, decay-causing bacteria and food particles can get under the filling. These bacteria are hard to remove easily with a toothbrush. A person will then be at risk of developing additional decay in the tooth.
Can I Work After Getting a Cavity Filled? Yes, a cavity filling procedure will not prohibit you from going to work. You should only feel minor discomfort. If you feel severe pain after receiving a filling, contact your dentist.
You can eat or drink right after the procedure. A composite filling hardens immediately under UV light. Still, your dentist might recommend that you wait at least two hours before eating because your cheeks and gums might be a little numb from the anesthetic.