How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

The best way to fix a cavity in a tooth is by removing the damaged enamel and dentin and then filling in the empty space left behind with a filling. Fillings are durable enough to withstand normal daily use, but they are not indestructible, and they won’t last forever. When they become damaged or are no longer protecting the tooth, they need to be replaced.

The Lifespan of a Filling

The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material it is made of, your dental hygiene, and your eating habits. On average, a dental filling can last anywhere between 5 and 30 years.

The material used to make your filling has the biggest impact on how long the filling will last. These are the different types of fillings and their average lifespan:

• Composite fillings – 7 to 8 years

• Ceramic fillings – 10 to 15 years

• Silver amalgam fillings – 15 to 20 years

• Cast gold fillings – 20 to 30 years

• Glass ionomer fillings – 5 to 7 years

Factors that Affect the Lifespan of a Filling

There are other factors that will affect how long your filling will last, like your eating habits. Eating foods that are hard, tough, chewy, or crunchy can put extra wear and tear on your fillings, so it is best to avoid eating these foods. A poor dental hygiene routine can shorten the lifespan of a filling, so be sure to brush and floss daily. Trauma from sports injuries can damage a filling too, so be sure to wear a mouthguard if you play sports. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can put undue force on a filling. If you grind your teeth, wear a nightguard while you sleep to protect your fillings.

Do you have a filling that needs to be replaced? Call or stop by Perry Dental & Perry Dental Kids in Perry, Utah to schedule an appointment with us!