According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 90% of people develop a cavity by the time they reach the age of 20. A dental filling is often used as a treatment option for this very common dental issue. A filling is relatively easy to place and effectively treats tooth decay. While the treatment is irreversible and very durable, it is not permanent; a filling will likely need replacing at some point in the future. How long fillings last depend on a variety of factors.
A well-trained dentist's skill, precision, and execution of the procedure will help ensure that any type of dental work lasts as long as possible. A well-placed filling should last for many years. However, other elements may influence just how durable your dental filling turns out to be.
When you develop a cavity that needs treatment with a filling, you will have two main options to choose from: Amalgam or composite. Amalgam, which is an alloy made from a variety of metals, has been used for decades in the dental health industry and is a safe, effective material for filling dental cavities. Composite resin, a tooth-colored material made from a mixture of plastic and glass particles, is a newer alternative that offers many of the same benefits. Today, many people prefer composite resin fillings over amalgam ones because:
While both options are safe, effective, and durable, amalgam fillings tend to last a few years longer than composite ones. They are also more resistant to damage, making them a popular option for treating cavities in children.
Metal fillings tend to last about 15 years for the average patient, while a composite resin filling typically lasts between 10 and 12 years. Patients with good dental health who maintain excellent oral hygiene may be able to extend this timeline even further. However, bad habits and lifestyle choices, along with a predisposition to tooth decay, may mean a patient will require a filling replacement in much less time.
If you want to increase the lifespan of a dental filling while avoiding more dental work in the future, these tips can be helpful. Of course, be sure to follow your dentist's instructions as well.
Before dental fillings are placed, the dentist will remove all bacteria and decayed tissue. Even so, the tooth can still be susceptible to new decay in the future. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day are still essential to prevent more cavities from developing. If tooth decay occurs near the filling, it will probably need to be replaced.
Limit or avoid foods that are more likely to cause tooth decay, such as sugary sweets and drinks. Instead, eat foods that are rich in vitamins and calcium to help strengthen your teeth. You should also avoid very hard, sticky, or crunchy foods, as these could damage dental fillings.
If you develop bruxism and habitually grind or clench your teeth, you are much more likely to damage any type of dental work, along with your natural teeth. See a dentist for treatment options and appliances that can help protect your fillings and your teeth from injury. In addition, chewing on ice or foreign objects can have the same effect, so take steps to break these habits as well.
In addition to daily brushing and flossing, routine professional cleanings are essential to keep tooth decay under control. For example, dentists can remove plaque and tartar buildup, especially between your teeth and along the gum line, for improved cavity prevention. Dentists will also monitor existing fillings to ensure they are holding up well.
Dental fillings are a prevalent treatment option for cavities and tooth decay. While they are very durable and can last for many years, they are not indestructible. The materials you choose and how well you care for your teeth will affect how long a dental filling will last. Talk with a dentist to determine which option is right for your needs.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smilebeautification.com or call Rolando Cibischino D.M.D. at (201) 204-1355 for an appointment in our Hackensack office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Hackensack, NJ.
A dental filling falling out of a tooth may feel like a strange "pop" — or you may feel nothing at all upon dislodging the material from your enamel. Anyone who has lost a filling can attest to the panic of wondering what to do next. You may be surprised to know that while fillings…
When individuals experience cavities and other problems that affect their teeth, dentists use a dental filling to repair and restore them. This helps preserve damaged teeth and prevents their loss. Dental fillings are the most common type of dental work: according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 90% of Americans have had…
A cavity indicates that your tooth is decayed to some extent and requires a dental filling. This tooth decay will spread even further if it is not addressed by a dental professional. Cavities are treated by filling them with one of the dental materials designed to treat cavities, which prevents further tooth deterioration. Maintaining the…
A cosmetic dentist has a background in general dentistry but focuses their efforts on procedures outside the realm of routine care, such as on the form of the mouth, including how the teeth and/or gums appear. Although there is a common misconception that cosmetic dentists only care about looks, they do ensure full functionality too.…
It is amazing the amount of confidence that comes from the options for replacing missing teeth. The absence of a tooth or even multiple teeth can make daily tasks like eating and speaking more difficult than they must be. For those who suffer from this, just having the ability to learn more about options can…
There are a variety of common reasons people are missing teeth. Missing teeth can cause many oral health problems, including difficulty chewing food and the gradual movement and misalignment of your teeth over time. However, there are solutions to dealing with missing teeth, including dental implants, implant-supported bridges, and removable partial dentures. Read on to…