Fillings are also highly necessary in the method of being able to restore a tooth that is damaged with a cavity or decay. If you have recently had a filling or are thinking about getting one, you may be asking yourself how long they last and what you should do to take care of it. Though fillings are meant to last for many years, the length of time depends on quite a few factors. In this article, we discuss how long dental fillings last, what impacts the longevity of dental fillings, and how to take care of your dental fillings to increase their lifespan.
Average Lifespan of Dental Fillings
The durability of dental fillings can vary depending on the material used for the filling, your oral habits, and your dental health in general. Fillings can last from 5 to 10 years and some even up to 15. But with proper care, some fillings can last even longer.
- Silver Fillings (Amalgam): Silver fillings, known as amalgam fillings, are among the most long-lasting types. These fillings might be composed of any number of metals including silver, mercury, and tin. With care, they can last between 10 and 15 years or more.
- Tooth-Colored Fillings (Composite Resin): Composite resin fillings (which are made to match the natural color of your teeth) usually last 5 to 10 years. Whereas they might not last as long as silver fillings they are a more attractive alternative particularly for fillings that are located in the visible portion of the teeth or front teeth.
- Gold Fillings: Gold dental fillings are incredibly strong and long-lasting, some can even last 20 years or longer. They are composed of an alloy of gold, copper and other metals. Gold fillings can be expensive compared to other options despite their durability.
- Ceramic Fillings: Ceramic fillings, which are generally composed of porcelain, have a shelf life of 10-15 years. They are also stain-resistant and appear more natural than amalgam fillings, so they are good options for teeth that are visible during smile. Looking for a Temporary Tooth Fillings in Dubai?
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Dental Fillings
Several factors influence how long your dental fillings will last. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your dental care.
- Type of Filling Material: As mentioned earlier, filling materials have different degrees of durability. Amalgam or gold fillings are longer lasting than composite fillings, but they are not as natural looking. Your dentist will help guide you to the material that is right for you.
- Location of the Filling: The location of the filling in your mouth will greatly determine how long it lasts. Those in the teeth that experience added pressure, like the back molars, may wear out faster. On the other hand, fillings that don’t experience as much pressure may be more durable.
- Oral Hygiene Habits: Good oral hygiene, which includes brushing several times a day, flossing daily, etc, helps keep your fillings healthy. As time passes, plaque and bacteria can deteriorate fillings, so when you maintain a clean mouth, it will help your fillings last longer.
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw (a condition called bruxism), you can wear out your fillings faster. If you have this problem, your dentist may suggest that you wear a night guard to help reduce wear on the fillings.
- Diet: Foods that are sugary or highly acidic may lead to the erosion of fillings. Breaking or losing fillings are also the result of hard or sticky foods. Eating healthy and avoiding too much sugar is the best way to keep your fillings strong.
- Dental Health and Habits: Those with bad oral hygiene or frequent cavities, or who have other issues with their teeth, may have a shorter than average lifespan of cavities. Regular dentist cleanings and exams can help catch problems early and prevent fillings from failing early. Get details about Composite Tooth Fillings in Dubai.
How to Care for Your Fillings
Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your dental fillings. Here are a few tips to help you take care of your fillings:
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss your teeth at least once each day to eliminate food and plaque. This will also help preserve your fillings and your natural teeth.
- Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: Do not chew on hard food or hard candy as it can crack or otherwise damage your fillings. Sticky food such as caramel can lift or wear down fillings.
- Wear a Night Guard: If you tend to grind your teeth at night, a night guard can help protect your fillings as well as your teeth from potential damage. Your dentist can also custom-fabricate a night guard to comfortably fit your mouth.
- Schedule Regular Check-ups: Normal appointments are key to checking on the health of your fillings. Your dentist will be able to look for wear, cracks, and decay around the filling and possibly repair or replace the filling, if necessary.
- Be Careful with Fillings in the Back Teeth: Fillings in the back of your mouth (where much of the chewing takes place) may experience more pressure. With these fillings it is good to be a bit extra gentle, do not chew with too much force. Looking for a Best Dental Clinic in Dubai?
When to Replace Your Fillings
Even with proper care, fillings will eventually need to be replaced. Signs that a filling needs to be replaced include:
- Visible cracks or chips: If you notice any visible damage to your filling, it’s important to get it checked.
- Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures can indicate that a filling has worn down or is no longer sealing properly.
- Pain or discomfort: If you experience pain or discomfort when chewing, your filling may be compromised, and you should see your dentist for an evaluation.
- Dark spots or decay: If you notice dark spots or signs of decay around the filling, it could be time for a replacement.
Maintaining the Durability of Your Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are an important part of having good oral health and with the right care will last for many years. The longevity of your fillings depends on several factors, including filling material, the location of the filling in your mouth, and your oral habits, but most fillings will last 5 to 15 years on average. With a good oral home care routine and regular visits to dentist, you can ensure your fillings last for as long as possible and enjoy a healthy and attractive smile for many years to come.
FAQ
How long do dental fillings typically last? Fillings last between 5 and 15 years, depending on the material used and the care they receive.
What factors affect the lifespan of dental fillings? The kind of material, where in the mouth the filling is located, habits of oral hygiene and habits like teeth grinding can all affect how long fillings last.
Can I extend the life of my dental fillings? Yes, practicing good oral hygiene, no hard or sticky foods, and an occlusal guard for teeth grinding, all help to extend the life of your fillings.
Do all types of fillings last the same amount of time? No, silver and gold fillings are longer lasting (up to 10-15+ years) than composite fillings which typically last about 5-10 years.
When should I replace my dental fillings? You should change out your fillings if you have visible cracks or pain, or if you see decay or have sensitivity around the filling.
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