No dental filling, no matter how durable they’re made to be, can last forever. Eventually, the materials used to make the filling will weaken and break down, which means they’ll need to be replaced. As long as you take good care of your teeth by brushing, flossing, and using alcohol-free mouthwash on a daily basis, then you can help lengthen the lifespan of your fillings.

It’s completely normal to experience a minimal amount of pain, discomfort, or sensitivity immediately after having a filling placed on one or more of your teeth. Keep in mind that the internal structure of the tooth has been degraded and that’s why you need the filling in the first place. Any substance that comes into contact with the affected teeth for the first little while whether it’s hot or cold water, food, or even air can cause it to feel sensitive. It takes a little bit of time for the tooth to adjust to its new structural support and regain some of its strength. This discomfort or pain usually subsides within a few days, but in some cases can last weeks or months.

Yes, your filling can be damaged or fall out as a result of brushing or flossing too aggressively but usually if a filling falls out there was something wrong with it. However, that shouldn’t discourage you from brushing or flossing. It’s important to move your toothbrush in gentle circular motions to avoid removing the protective layer of enamel on your teeth.