Are Your Fillings Forever? Here’s How Long They Really Last

Nothing can beat the appeal of natural appearance of teeth. However, due to cavities or damage, oftentimes we might need to take the help of dental fillings.

Wondering what are fillings? Made of more than 10 materials (zinc oxide, glass ionomers, acrylic and ceramic resins, nickel, porcelain, chromium, and more), dental fillings can be temporary options or for long-term wear. Fillings breathe life into decayed teeth and protect them from further harm. Their real-like appearance helps them blend with your natural teeth. 

The answer to how long dental fillings last highly depends on the material they are made of. But that’s not it! A lot of factors play a role in deciding the lifespan of fillings. Let’s explore the factors influencing dental filling longevity and how you can ensure they remain effective.

Lifespan of Dental Fillings

Similar to other dental tools/procedures, the lifespan of dental fillings depends on the material they’re made of and the level of care you invest in. Here’s a list to enlighten you on how the filling material changes its longevity:

• Amalgam fillings: You can expect them to last 10-15 years.
• Composite fillings: While they seamlessly blend with your natural teeth shade, they may last only 7-10 years.
• Gold fillings: One of the most durable materials made, this filling might last nearly 15-30 years. Being one of the costliest fillings, these don’t disappoint. 
• Ceramic fillings: With a lifespan of nearly 15 years, these fillings tend to withstand stains better than multiple others from their family. 

Factors that Affect the Durability of Fillings

While you now have a rough idea of how long a dental filling lasts, how you take care of it also decides for how long you can trust your cavity fillings: 

• Bite pressure: Be gentle while chewing as unnecessary stress can wear fillings faster.
• Oral hygiene: Don’t skip your daily brushing and flossing routine as they prevent decay around fillings.
• Material quality: No wonder high-quality materials last longer.
• Teeth grinding: If you’re suffering from bruxism, you might require frequent fillings.

Signs Your Filling Needs Replacement

Knowing when to replace a dental filling can simplify your oral treatment and make maintenance of oral hygiene simple. Watch for signs such as:

• Cracked or chipped filling
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
• Throbbing pain in the tooth
• Dark spots around the filled area

How to Maintain Your Dental Fillings?

Take these simple steps to keep your fillings intact:

• Opt for fluoride toothpaste instead of the generic ones to strengthen teeth.
• Don’t bite on hard objects like ice or pens
• Don’t skip your routine dental visits every six months
• You should always use a nightguard if you suffer from teeth grinding.

Dental fillings can be a savior from lifelong dental pain and oral health concerns. If you’re in Fort Lauderdale and your filling feels loose or damaged, contact our dental team to schedule an appointment. We can help detect minor dental issues before they escalate.