Lifespan of Dental Fillings
Depending on the material and other factors, dental fillings usually last between 5 to 15 years. They help restore teeth damaged by decay, with some lasting just a few years while others remain strong for over a decade. Following is how it works with various filling types:
- Amalgam (Silver) Fillings: Made from a mix of metals like silver, mercury, tin, and copper, these are strong and great for back teeth. They typically last 10 to 15 years, sometimes even longer, with good care.
- Composite Resin Fillings: Made from plastic and fine glass particles, these blend well with natural teeth and are ideal for front teeth. They usually last 5 to 7 years, but new materials are making them more durable.
- Ceramic Fillings: Made from porcelain, these are both strong and natural-looking. With proper care, they can last over 15 years.
- Gold Fillings: Extremely durable and resistant to wear, gold fillings can last more than 20 years.
Factors that Affect the Lifetime of Dental Fillings
There are certain factors that can affect the longevity of your dental fillings. These factors include:
- Oral Hygiene Practices
Good oral hygiene is essential for keeping fillings in place. Poor dental care can lead to new decay around the filling, increase the risk of it failing, and make cavities more likely in other teeth. - Eating Habits and Diet
What you eat affects how long your fillings last. Sugary and acidic foods can weaken enamel, increasing the chances of decay and damage to the filling. - Tooth Location and Filling Size
The position and size of a filling impact its durability. Fillings in back teeth experience more pressure from chewing, while smaller fillings tend to last longer since they have fewer complications. - Dental Trauma and Tooth Structure
The condition of your tooth plays a big role in keeping fillings secure. Accidental bumps can loosen them, and chipped teeth may cause fillings to fall out. - Teeth Grinding and Jaw Habits
Grinding your teeth (bruxism) puts extra pressure on fillings, making them wear out faster and reducing their lifespan. - Professional Placement Technique
A properly placed filling lasts longer. The dentist must carefully clean and dry the tooth and prevent moisture or bacteria from affecting the treatment.
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Signs That Your Dental Filling Needs Replacement
Signs that a dental filling may need replacement include pain, sensitivity, or visible damage. If you feel discomfort when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, your filling might be loose or cracked, allowing temperature changes to reach the tooth’s nerve.
Visible cracks or chips can happen due to wear over time, biting hard foods, or trauma. If a filling falls out completely, you may notice a gap in your tooth or find the filling in your mouth, and it should be replaced immediately to prevent infection.
Sharp pain when biting down can also mean a filling is loose or damaged, putting pressure on the tooth’s nerve. Fillings have different lifespans; composite fillings typically last 5-7 years, amalgam fillings 10-12 years, and gold fillings 15-20 years. However, it’s best to check with your dentist about when to replace yours.
Wrapping Up
Answering “How long do dental fillings last?” can be tricky. There are different filling types with various lifespans. Visiting your dentist regularly for routine checks is your best bet to maximize your filling’s longevity.
Visit our dental professionals at Richmond Dental Care. Our dentists offer multiple types of dental fillings, including composite, ceramic, and glass ionomer fillings. Call us at (832) 612-2831 to book an appointment.
