When food particles and plaque are allowed to remain on your teeth for an extended period of time due to improper brushing and not rinsing immediately after eating sticky food, bacteria begin to accumulate.

These bacteria release acids which can dissolve the enamel if not cleaned away.This enamel – the outer covering of the tooth – begins to darken gradually depending on how much it has dissolved or weakened.

If this decay is allowed to continue, that portion of the tooth will eventually chip away and form a ‘cavity’ – a hole in your tooth’s enamel – gradually progressing to the deeper layers – dentin – and pulp, if not treated on time.

It is common to experience increased level of sensitivity immediately after a filling is done. It may last for around two to three weeks, but will gradually lessen, if lasts longer then see your dentist.

To take care of your filling, keep up with your regular dental care routine, means brushing and flossing twice a day, rinsing vigorously with water after eating food that is sweet and/or sticky, ensuring that no food particle remains on the tooth surface after your meals…

Attending regular dental check-ups, and informing your dentist about any changes as soon as they appear. If you feel your dental filling has cracked over several years, it’s time to get it repaired.