Dental fillings are one of the most common ways to treat teeth that have been damaged by wear or minor decay. Unfortunately, everyday use and natural wear can lead fillings to weaken, though there are a variety of ways you can help them to last.
What is a filling?
A dental filling is a type of treatment used to help a tooth affected by minor decay, where the decayed or missing portion of a tooth is restored with a type of stable material. Fillings are used to protect the structure of a tooth and prevent decay from worsening, which helps the tooth function normally without any pain or difficulty. Filling treatment starts with removing decay in a tooth and filling the resulting hole — or cavity — with durable material to support the tooth structure and avoid more decay occurring.
How long does a filling last?
While dental fillings are an effective treatment used very regularly, they unfortunately do not last forever, and are known to lose their durability over time. Thankfully, a filling should last around 7-10 years, with a good chance that it will outlive that span. However, your filling’s lifespan will depend on a variety of different factors, including those relating to the filling itself, and others relating to how well you look after it.
Factors affecting the durability of fillings
- Material: Metal-based filling materials tend to last longer than composite resin, though they often lack aesthetic appeal. Porcelain fillings balance both factors.
- Location of tooth: Filled teeth that experience more chewing pressure, like molars, often deteriorate quicker.
- Oral hygiene: Plaque buildup can cause the filling to decay or loosen.
- Size of filling: Larger fillings are required to provide more support, and as a result are more likely to crack or loosen.
- Diet: Frequent exposure to acids or sugar can weaken the filling over time.
Signs your filling needs to be replaced
When your filling begins to fail, it can unfortunately open you up to the same issues you were hoping to remove when you first got it, including decay and infection. Some signs you might need to consider replacing your filling include:
- Pain or sensitivity
- Visible cracks, chips or dark spots
- Toothache or inflammation
- Rough edges
- The filling has completely fallen out
When a filling wears out, your dentist may opt to simply refill it if much of it is still in place. If most of the filling is ruined, they will likely opt to replace it completely to prevent the development of any decay. However, if the tooth structure has weakened and is not strong enough to support another filling, they may recommend replacing it with a dental crown instead, to provide more comprehensive and lasting support.
Preserving your fillings
To help your dental fillings last as long as possible, good oral care and healthy habits make all the difference. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily helps to prevent plaque buildup around the filling edges, which keeps decay at bay. It’s important to visit your dentist for a regular check-up at least once every six months, which allows us to spot any signs of wear or leakage as early as possible. The earlier we can identify potential issues, the more likely we will be able to prevent them from becoming a problem.
Another big part of preserving a filling is being thoughtful about how and what you eat. People with large fillings should avoid chewing hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard lollies, which can crack or dislodge fillings. Limiting sugary and acidic drinks helps protect both your natural enamel and the material around your filling from erosion. While doing all these things won’t guarantee your fillings last forever, it will go a long way to ensuring it stays strong and functional for as long as possible.
Making your care last
Caring for your fillings is one of the simplest ways to protect your teeth and avoid future decay. With good hygiene and regular check-ups, your fillings can stay strong for years.
If you have a filling that might need to be replaced, or would just like to learn more about the treatment, book a consultation with us. Our friendly team is always here to help you smile.
