Dental fillings are one of the most common and effective ways to treat cavities and preserve natural teeth. But many patients wonder: how long do dental fillings actually last? At Living Oaks Dental in Fairhope, we believe in giving families straightforward, reliable information, because when you understand how to care for your teeth, you can enjoy longer-lasting dental work. Whether you’re dealing with an aging filling or just had one placed, our goal is to help you maintain it for years to come.
Average Life Expectancy of Dental Fillings
The lifespan of a dental filling depends on several key factors, including the material used and your oral care habits. On average, you can expect:
- Amalgam (silver) fillings: Last around 10-15 years.
- Composite resin (tooth-colored) fillings: Typically last 5-10 years.
Dr. Jeremy McDoniell and Dr. Gene Brabston often remind patients that while material matters, your overall oral hygiene also plays a major role in how well a filling holds up. In many cases, strong daily habits can extend a filling’s life beyond its average range.
What Causes Fillings to Wear Out?
Even the most carefully placed filling will eventually require replacement. Knowing what contributes to wear can help you prevent early failure:
- Chewing Pressure: Constant biting and grinding, especially if you clench or grind your teeth at night, puts stress on your fillings.
- Decay Around the Filling: If a new cavity forms near an existing filling, it may compromise the structure.
- Temperature Changes: Repeated exposure to hot and cold can cause materials to expand and contract, weakening the bond.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Infrequent brushing or flossing invites bacteria that can affect the tooth and existing restoration.
At Living Oaks Dental, we monitor your restorations closely during checkups to detect signs of weakening or wear early. This is another reason why consistent, professional care is key.
Signs It’s Time to Replace a Filling
Fillings don’t always show visible damage, which is why missed dental appointments can lead to surprises. However, be alert for these signs:
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
- Pain or pressure when chewing
- Visible cracks or dark spots in the filling
- The feeling that your bite has changed
If you’re unsure, Dr. McDoniell and Dr. Brabston use advanced diagnostic tools to determine whether a filling has deteriorated. They offer conservative, lasting solutions designed for your long-term comfort.
How to Make Your Fillings Last Longer
A few smart daily habits and routine care decisions can help you maximize the lifespan of your fillings and preserve them for many years to come:
- Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush gently, especially around any restorative work.
- Floss Daily: Prevent decay from forming along the edges of your fillings.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing ice or biting down on hard candies can cause fractures.
- Wear a Nightguard: If you grind your teeth at night, custom nightguards protect your fillings from excess pressure.
- Don’t Skip Your Checkups: Routine exams at Living Oaks Dental help us catch problems early so we can repair them before they worsen.
We prioritize both prevention and comfort, creating personalized care plans that protect every aspect of your dental health, whether you’re 8 or 80.
Schedule a Family-Friendly Dental Checkup in Fairhope
If you’re concerned about the condition of an existing filling or simply want to prevent future issues, we’re here for you. At Living Oaks Dental, we’ve been caring for local families for over four decades, offering trusted, comprehensive care in a setting that feels like home. Call us at (251) 928-1645 to schedule your appointment and keep your smile strong for today and the years ahead.
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