How long does a dental filling last ? There isn’t a correct answer to this questions because there is a lot of factors when a dental filling is placed. Factors include what type of material is being used, if the technique of placing the filling was correct, and patients oral hygiene. There are also different life spans for certain dental materials.

Amalgam fillings or better known as silver fillings are very strong, durable, and can withstand a lot of the wearing down. The life span of amalgam can last from 10 to 15 years plus depending on patients oral hygiene. Your dentist will notice when it’s time to replace the filling. The silver fillings will begin to break, leak or shrink, and it’s at this moment the filling will need replacing. This material works great when it’s allowed to set correctly.

Composite fillings or white fillings are the most popular type of filling restoration. This type of fillings require to drill less keeping more of your tooth structure. The average life span of white fillings is about 7-10 years. These filling also shrink with time, they can also break or come off. It requires a good technique to place this material, the working area has to be kept dry at all times to see the best results.

Oral hygiene plays a huge role in maintaining  your current restorations. Brushing and flossing daily to keep any bacteria from forming on the restorations. Wearing a night guard if you suffer from bruxism. If you grind your teeth and don’t wear a night guard it’s a good idea to speak to your dentist. This will prevent any wearing down of the teeth and fillings. Visiting your dentist when schedule or whenever there is a dental emergency will also extend the restorations life span.

It is very important to replace any broken or worn off fillings because there can be a chance of recurrent decay.  This means that there can be a chance of another cavity forming around or underneath the current restoration. The best way to find out if you need any fillings replace is when you schedule your check ups. If you have any questions you can contact our Santa Ana Dentist Dr. Danial Kalantari or your friendly staff of Smiles on Bristol Dentistry. Contact Us