Fillings are the most common way to treat cases of mild to moderate dental decay. A filling can stop the decay from worsening, restore the tooth’s structure, and protect its sensitive inner layers. But how long can you expect your dental fillings to last? That depends on a few factors. This blog post delves into the average lifespan of fillings and provides tips to help your restorations stand the test of time.
The Average Lifespan of Fillings
Fillings can be made of various materials. The two most common are:
- Silver amalgam. These are made of mercury and other metals. They are very durable and can last for up to 15 years or longer. Amalgam fillings used to be the standard of care in dentistry, but their dark color and high mercury content have made them much less popular in recent years.
- Composite. Also known as tooth-colored fillings, these are made of a special type of resin that contains tiny particles of plastic, glass, and other materials. They are metal-free and can be shade-matched to blend in with the teeth. They last for 7 years on average, though they may endure for 10 years or longer if they receive proper care.
Making Your Fillings Last Longer
Here are some tips to help your fillings last longer:
- Stick to a good oral hygiene routine. Decay in the tissue around a filling can shorten its lifespan, so thorough brushing and flossing are of utmost importance!
- Mind your diet. Sugary foods increase your risk of decay, extremely hard foods can cause wear and tear on your fillings, and sticky foods might pull your fillings right out of place! It is best to minimize your intake of such items.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Biannual dental visits can allow your dentist to monitor your fillings and provide personalized advice to protect them from damage.
Is It Time to Replace Your Fillings?
Your dentist can let you know when it is time to replace your fillings. You might need new ones if:
- You have a toothache or sensitivity in a tooth with a filling.
- A dental X-ray reveals a problem with one of your fillings or the tissue around it.
- You notice that one of your fillings is missing.
- You wish to replace your metal fillings with a more aesthetically pleasing alternative.
Dental fillings are a long-term solution for tooth decay. Keep an eye on your restorations so you can replace them in a timely manner.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Sara Curcio earned her dental degree nearly 20 years ago. She remains enthusiastic about her career, and she is proud to offer a wide range of treatments for families in our area, including tooth-colored fillings. To learn more about how she and our team may be able to serve you, contact our South Windsor office at 860-644-2476.