How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

Composite Fillings Clearwater, FL

Dental fillings are one of the best ways to restore missing , however, one question that comes up is how long these fillings will last. There are different types of fillings that patients can choose from, which plays a part in how long they last.

In this article, we outline how long different types of dental fillings can last. This information can be helpful to someone who is considering their options. Learn more below!

How long do dental fillings last?

Because there are so many different types of dental fillings, it is important to understand each one lasts for different amounts of time.

Gold fillings

These dental fillings are said to be the longest lasting. Gold is durable, reliable and one of the most traditional materials used for dental fillings. If cared for properly, they can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, which is quite impressive compared to other types. While gold fillings aren't necessarily discrete, they do offer a long lifespan to someone looking for a permanent restoration. 

Composite fillings

While composite resin dental fillings are popular due to their natural color, they don’t tend to last as long as metal-based ones. The composite material just isn’t as durable as metal ones. Most general dentists state that composite fillings may need to be replaced or refilled every 5 to 7 years depending on wear and tear.

Silver amalgam fillings

One of the most controversial filling materials for dental cavities is silver amalgam. Some studies have shown that amalgam is unsafe to the mouth, while others have found that no harm can be done. However, the dental board association has concluded that amalgam is safe and harmless. With that being said, amalgam fillings are said to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. They are very traditional, and a lot of people opt for them due to their durability and affordability.

Dental care

Another important factor that determines how long all dental fillings last is the quality of dental care that is provided to the filled tooth. When patients take good care of their teeth each day, they are more likely to have fillings that last for many years.

Avoiding sticky, chewy and extremely hard food items can help keep dental fillings intact. Regular visits to the dentist’s office will also ensure that dental fillings are maintained throughout a patient’s life. General dentists will be able to monitor a patient's dental fillings over time to ensure that they don't need repair or replacement. 

Get started today!

Want to know how long your dental fillings will last? We can help you! Our general dentists can evaluate your fillings and determine what may be best for them so that they last as long as possible. Give us a call or stop by our office today so that we can help you with your upcoming or current fillings. 

Request an appointment here: https://breezydental.com or call Breezy Dental at (727) 725-3279 for an appointment in our Clearwater office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Clearwater, FL.

Recent Posts

What To Know About Composite Dental Fillings

When someone develops a cavity, a dentist will likely suggest dental fillings to prevent infection and strengthen your tooth. Read on to learn more about dental fillings. Dental restorations may be made out of various materials, but the most frequent fillings are amalgam and composite resin. Amalgam was the most common filling material; however, composite…

4 Advantages Of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are made of artificial substances, and they are used to fill the holes in your tooth left due to decay. They can also fix damaged, cracked, or broken teeth. Fillings are needed to help restore the structure of your tooth and help aid in your dental health for years to come. A dental filling…

Can Dental Fillings Treat Tooth Decay?

Dental fillings play a vital role in treating tooth decay. If tooth decay has progressed beyond its earliest stage, a filling will help restore the tooth to its former, healthy state.Tooth decay is damage caused by bacteria, which, when combined with food, causes plaque. Over time, the bacteria in the plaque form acids, which start…

What To Expect When Getting A Dental Filling

A dental filling is used to restore and renew teeth that are in bad shape. Oftentimes, a general dentist will recommend a dental filling for patients who have a minor cavity, but the procedure can also be used to treat things like chips or cracks.Regardless of what the dental filling is being used to treat,…

Recent Posts

General Dentistry: How A Dentist Can Improve The Health Of Gums

General Dentistry: How A Dentist Can Improve The Health Of Gums

General dentistry includes a patient's primary dental care provider. A general dentist diagnoses and treats overall oral health care needs, including the care and health of the gums.Most procedures to encourage gum health also encourage the general health of a patient's teeth. The following procedures should ultimately lead to healthier gums.During an oral examination, the…

Why It&#    ;s Important To Repair A Chipped Tooth

Why It's Important To Repair A Chipped Tooth

A chipped tooth can lead to serious complications, which is why it is so important to undergo a repair. There are many ways that a general dentist can treat a tooth with a chip in it, ranging from composite bonding to dental veneer placement. While it can be tempting to let a chipped tooth go,…