Dental fillings are effectively used to treat tooth decay, and can last up to ten years. However, over time dental fillings may become damaged. In order to understand how to prevent damage to dental fillings, it is important to understand what may cause this damage.

5 Common Causes of Damaged Fillings

  1. Neglecting Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is important, especially when you have fillings. Neglecting to care for your oral hygiene correctly could result in damaged fillings and more dental cavities. 

  1. Biting and Chewing

Our teeth and jaws have biting and chewing abilities. Consequently, the strength behind our biting and chewing can eventually cause damage to dental fillings. 

  1. Regularly Grinding Teeth

    Teeth grinding puts intense pressure on teeth, and can easily cause damage to dental fillings. 

  1. Eating and Chewing on Hard Foods

Eating hard, sticky foods can quickly cause damage to fillings, as well regularly chewing on hard objects such as fingernails, pen-caps, and straws.

  1. Temperature Changes

    Some dental fillings are made of metal, including silver amalgam. These fillings are sensitive to extreme temperature changes, and may become loose or even crack teeth.

5 Ways to Prevent Damaged Fillings

  1. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

One of the best ways to prevent damaged fillings is to make sure your dental care is a high priority. Be sure to schedule regular appointments and cleanings to keep on top of your oral hygiene.

  1. Brush Teeth Twice a Day

For proper dental care, teeth should be brushed a minimum of twice a day.

  1. Floss Regularly

Flossing daily and thoroughly can make a huge difference in your dental care.

  1. Avoid Eating and Chewing Hard Foods

To prevent damaging your dental fillings, be sure to avoid eating hard foods or chewing on object such as fingernails, pen-caps, or straws. 

  1. Limit Subjecting Your Teeth to Extreme Temperature Changes

If you have fillings made with silver amalgam, be careful of consuming hot and cold foods or liquids back-to-back. 

We Can Help You Maintain Your Smile!

At Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS, we have a knowledgeable and dedicated staff to help you and your family achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929


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Ezbond A. Foutz, D.D.S.
4 Generations of Dentists Spanning 3 Centuries
1st Generation:

Great Grandfather

Dr. Ezbond A. Foutz
Harold B. Foutz, D.D.S.
4 Generations of Dentists Spanning 3 Centuries
2nd Generation:


Dr. Harold B. Foutz
Lawrence C. Foutz, D.D.S.
4 Generations of Dentists Spanning 3 Centuries
3rd Generation:


Dr. Lawrence C. Foutz
Barton H. Foutz, D.D.S.
4 Generations of Dentists Spanning 3 Centuries
4th Generation:

Family and Cosmetic Dentist

Dr. Barton H. Foutz