Is Your Smile Still Secure? When to Replace Old Fillings With Composite Fillings in Flint, MI
Flint, United States – January 29, 2026 / Josephs Family Dentistry /
Many residents searching for composite fillings in Flint, MI, might not realize that dental restorations have a specific lifespan. While modern materials are incredibly durable, they eventually succumb to the constant pressures of chewing and biting. Joseph’s Family Dentistry understands that maintaining a healthy smile requires regular monitoring of older dental work. Even if a filling was placed years ago, it can eventually wear down, leak, or crack. When this happens, bacteria can find their way under the restoration and cause new decay that is often hard to see. Dr. Devante Josephs and his team focus on identifying these issues early to prevent the need for more complex treatments.
Increased Sensitivity to Temperature
One of the most common indicators that a filling is failing is a sudden change in how your teeth feel. If you experience a sharp zing or a lingering ache when drinking hot coffee or cold water, the seal of your filling may be compromised. Over time, the bond between the tooth and the filling can pull away. This creates microscopic gaps that allow temperature changes to reach the sensitive nerves inside the tooth. While occasional sensitivity might seem minor, it often points to a larger structural issue. Addressing this early allows for a simple replacement rather than waiting for the tooth to become painful.
Physical Damage to the Restoration
Fillings act as a protective barrier, but they can chip or crack just like natural enamel. You might feel a sharp edge with your tongue or notice that a piece of the filling has gone missing after eating something crunchy. Cracks can be very thin and hard to spot with the naked eye. However, these fractures compromise the entire tooth’s strength. Once a filling is cracked, it can no longer evenly distribute the pressure of your bite. This puts the remaining tooth at a high risk of breaking. Replacing these damaged pieces with new materials ensures that your tooth stays strong and functional for years to come.
Consistent Discomfort When Biting
Pain that only occurs when you chew is a significant red flag. This often suggests that the filling is no longer seated correctly or that a crack extends deeper into the tooth. If the filling is loose, it can move slightly when you bite down, causing a sharp pinch. This type of discomfort should never be ignored. It is the body’s way of signaling that the tooth’s structural integrity is failing. By visiting an expert who stays up to date with technological advances, you can have the old material removed and replaced with a fresh restoration that fits perfectly.
Food Getting Stuck in New Places
If you suddenly find that you need to floss more often in a specific spot, your filling might be the culprit. When a restoration wears down or chips at the contact point between two teeth, it creates a “food trap.” This is more than just an annoyance. Consistently trapped food leads to gum irritation and localized decay. If the shape of your old filling has changed due to wear, it can no longer protect the space between your teeth. A new, expertly shaped restoration can restore that tight contact and keep your gums healthy.
Expert Care in a Relaxing Environment
Dr. Josephs earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University after completing his undergraduate studies at Stony Brook University. As a member of the Michigan Dental Association and the American Dental Association, he is committed to providing top-tier care to the Flint community. He understands that many people feel anxious about dental visits. Because of this, he works hard to ensure every patient feels relaxed.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
When seeking high-quality composite fillings in Flint, MI, patients can trust the expertise at Joseph’s Family Dentistry. Protecting your smile starts with being proactive about your oral health and replacing failing restorations before they cause pain. Call the office today at (810) 732-1450 to book your appointment.
Contact Information:
Josephs Family Dentistry
3380 S Dye Rd
Flint, MI 48507
United States
Contact Josephs Family Dentistry
(810) 631-3630
https://www.josephsfamilydentistry.com/
