A dental filling is a type of dental restoration that is used to treat cavities and prevent further decay of the tooth. During a filling procedure, a dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and then fills the space with a special dental material. In this article, we discuss the types of materials used for dental fillings and answer the question: How long do dental fillings last?
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
The longevity of dental fillings depends on several factors:
- The material used for the filling
- The size of the filling (larger fillings tend to last not as long as smaller ones, as they require the removal of a bigger portion of the tooth)
- Dietary and lifestyle habits of the patient
- The efficiency of the patient’s daily oral hygiene routine
- The frequency of the patient’s visits to a dental office
How Long Do Different Dental Filling Materials Last?
Depending on your budget, personal preference, and health requirements, you can choose one of the following materials for your dental fillings:
- Resin composite is one of the most commonly used materials for dental fillings, as it resembles the enamel of natural teeth and is relatively inexpensive. You can expect your resin composite dental fillings to last from 5 to 8 years.
- Porcelain (ceramic) dental fillings also look natural and unobtrusive in the mouth while offering better durability compared to composite fillings. Porcelain fillings typically last between 10 and 15 years. However, this material tends to be more expensive than resin composite.
- Metal fillings, such as gold or silver amalgam, are durable and can last for up to 20 years in some cases, particularly gold fillings. The disadvantage of metal fillings is that they are noticeable in the mouth. Thus, dentists mainly use them to treat cavities in teeth located at the back of the mouth that are not visible when you speak.
- Glass ionomer fillings are primarily used for treating cavities in baby teeth or very small cavities in adult teeth, as they typically last shorter than other materials. Generally, you can expect glass ionomer fillings to last between 3 and 7 years.
Oral Hygiene, Lifestyle, and Dietary Habits That Can Make Your Fillings Last Longer
Regardless of the material of your dental fillings, we recommend following several tips that can help prolong the lifespan of your fillings and prevent new cavities in the future.
- An effective oral hygiene routine is key for preventing new cavities and prolonging the lifespan of your dental fillings. Brush your teeth twice a day with a medium or soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush for two full minutes and pay special attention to cleaning along the gum line and in hard-to-reach areas at the back of your mouth. Also, floss your teeth every evening before brushing, and consider using a water flosser as an additional step to boost your oral hygiene routine.
- Visiting your dentist for professional cleanings and checkups twice a year will also help prevent oral health issues and make sure your dental fillings are in good condition.
- Being mindful of your diet helps prevent your fillings from breaking or chipping off and becoming stained. Avoid crunchy and hard foods, and rinse your mouth immediately after meals if you consume staining foods or beverages.
- Dental fillings can also be broken or cracked if you use your teeth as tools, such as for unscrewing bottle lids. Additionally, habits such as chewing on hard objects, like pens or pencils, can be damaging to your fillings.
- Involuntary teeth grinding or clenching can cause your fillings to wear off much faster. We recommend getting a custom-made mouthguard from your dental office. Wearing a mouthguard at night will protect not only your dental fillings but also your teeth in general from wear and tear.
- A mouthguard can also help protect your fillings (especially those located in the front teeth) from breaking when you play contact or extreme sports or engage in activities that may result in falling or facial trauma.
Make an Appointment Today
If you notice signs of cavities, do not put off making an appointment with an experienced dentist at Monte Vista Dental Group today. At our dental office, we utilize high-quality materials and employ modern techniques to restore and maintain our patients’ oral health. We look forward to your visit.