Do dental fillings decay when they're old?

Answer by  Eldere (25)

No. The bacteria in the mouth can't cause the filling material to decay. The tooth around the filling can decay. The filling may erode or fracture due to the amounts of stress its put under but it's not classified as decay.

Answer by  P29 (42)

The fillings themselves won't decay but the glue binding the filling to the tooth may become weak over time. This would cause the filling to fall out.

Answer by  wiss22 (119)

Dental fillings don't decay the way a cavity will decay your teeth. Dental fillings do deteriorate though, and you'll need to get them replaced eventually. The actual amount of time that your dental filling will last depends on the material of which it is made. Metal fillings will last longer than the cosmetic enamel-colored fillings.

Answer by  vir (118)

its not always necessary that the old fillings get decayed but there are high chances if there is amalgum filling and a microlickage occurs there can be recurrent decay. one other possible fact is if a portion is decay left after filling the decay is seen under fillings.

Answer by  amber33 (1941)

The actual fillings do not decay, they can however start to brake down and the tooth can start to decay.

Answer by  sailoryue (853)

some will yes. ive lost many older fillings. now all of my fillings are tooth colored vs what they used to be years ago.

Answer by  bo (874)

Dental fillings do not necessarily "decay. " However, they will wear out. The fillings will begin to soften and "leak. " Then dentist can tell when this is happening. When it occurs, it is best to replace the fillings.