Are you somebody who needs a dental filling or have heard of someone receiving one? Have you ever asked yourself how long do dental fillings last? Well, dental fillings are utilized for a number of reasons. Fortunately, they can restore tooth structure by repairing cavities caused by tooth decay! So, no need to worry anymore if you are concerned about tooth decay. Since they are known to seal off areas in order to prevent bacteria from entering, they prevent further decay as well. This should give everyone a “peace of mind!”
If you feel discomfort in your mouth because of cavities, fillings can relieve this kind of pain. Fillings can also restore a tooth’s ability to bite and chew effectively, improving functionality. And that’s not all folks! They can improve the appearance of damaged teeth, enhancing aesthetics. Your holiday photos will be unforgettable! Not to mention, they can strengthen teeth and prevent tooth loss. Whether or not you are aware of them, this article intends to clarify the types of fillings and their lifespans. It is important to understand that fillings don’t last forever! Additionally, we will cover factors that affect filling lifespan and signs your filling may need replacement. You will also receive guidance on how to prolong their durability and when to consider replacement options. So, let’s get started!
Types of Dental Fillings and Their Average Lifespans
Let’s begin with amalgam fillings! Amalgam is a type of silver filling made with liquid mercury and other metals like silver, tin, copper, and zinc in a powder form. The average lifespan for amalgam fillings is approximately 10-15 years, but they have been known to last longer with proper maintenance.
Composite fillings have a natural appearance and can be customized to match the shade of your tooth. They are made of powdered glass filler and acrylic resin. Composite fillings last about 5-10 years and are often chosen for aesthetic reasons.
Now, let’s move on to something highly durable, gold! Gold can last 2-4 times longer than other filling materials, surviving between an impressive 15-30 years! However, gold is less common due to cost.
Are you curious about another durable filling option? Well, that would be ceramic! Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain and may be visually appealing. However, ceramic is even more expensive than gold!
Now, glass ionomer fillings are made with glass powder, organic acids + bases, and are tooth colored. They are typically used for cavities near the gumline that don’t experience heavy chewing. These fillings last about 5 – 15 years bonding chemically to tooth structure, creating a secure restoration.
Factors That Affect Filling Lifespan
Remember that each filling material has a different type of durability and, overall, lifespan. So, when you conduct your research, make sure you compare the length of time that each material can exist without showing signs of significant deterioration in quality or value! Another factor that can affect filling lifespan is the location in the mouth. Unfortunately, fillings within our back teeth end up enduring more pressure from chewing overtime, which can easily shorten their lifespan.
Now, if you have excellent oral hygiene, most likely you won’t come across decay around your filling. However, poor oral hygiene will yield decay around the filling overtime, again, compromising its longevity. The last thing we want to do is cause tooth decay and put stress on filling material. With that being said, a high-sugar diet, acidic drinks, chewing ice, grinding teeth, and hard foods like candy can weaken fillings in due time. Make sure you are participating in healthy lifestyle habits in order to maintain your fillings properly! Lastly, regular dental check-ups are key! Regular check-ups can help monitor filling wear and tear and address any problems early on.
Signs Your Filling May Need Replacement
Have you been experiencing tooth sensitivity around your filling lately? If you have been noticing increased sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, and sweet foods, this could be a sign that your filling is worn! Maybe tooth sensitivity is not your concern, but visible cracks, chips, and worn-down areas are. It’s definitely a time for replacement if cracks are visible and the filling is obviously worn down. Has chewing been a top challenge for you? Throbbing pain or pressure from chewing can definitely signal a damaged or loose filling.
It’s time to book that appointment you’ve been procrastinating on! Furthermore, unfortunate dark spots around a filling can indicate decay and might need replacement. So, after reading about these signs, you might be thinking about how you can prolong the life of your fillings. Well, we are here to help guide you on that next!
How to Prolong the Life of Your Fillings
Good oral hygiene is a no brainer! Make sure you are brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft, bristled brush and using fluoride toothpaste. Oh, and don’t forget to brush your tongue! In order to remove plaque and food from between your teeth, you should floss at-least once per day.
We understand that it’s hard to avoid those hard, sticky foods like candy or chewing gum. However, be mindful that these food items can crack or loosen fillings! Have stress and grinding your teeth been a challenge for you lately? If that’s the case, investing in a mouthguard is your best bet! Mouthguards protect your teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks from further injury. You’ll receive a much better night’s rest and your teeth will be thanking you. And back to that “regular dental visit” reminder! Those fillings need to be monitored regularly in order to prevent decay from developing around them. So, when should you actually consider replacement options?
When To Consider Replacement Options
Like with anything, being proactive can prevent bigger problems from arising in the future! In some cases, people choose to replace an old tooth filling before they fail. This is because as fillings age, bacteria can enter the tooth through small gaps and cracks and cause decay. This can eventually lead to more significant issues like root canals and tooth loss. Afterall, the integrity of the tooth is maintained with proactive replacement and prevents future complications! And there always are alternative options! Hypothetically, if a filling repeatedly fails, an inlay or a crown might offer a great longer-term solution!. A crown is also known as a tooth shaped cap or jacket. The point of it is to restore the shape and strength to a damaged or decayed tooth. Well, let’s wrap it up folks!
Seal the Deal: Secure Your Smile’s Future
While dental fillings may have a limited lifespan, proper maintenance and care can prolong durability. Remember, durability is the length of time the material can exist without signs of deterioration in quality! If you are noticing signs of wear, sensitivity, or discomfort, we encourage you to consult with your dentist to find the best solutions for your mouth. If you have questions about needing a filling or present fillings in your mouth already, schedule a dental check-up today!
We can’t wait to hear from you and look forward to discovering the most optimal solutions for your teeth!
