How Long Do Dental Fillings Last? 

Cavities in your teeth are so common that according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) 90 percent of all adults in the US have had at least one in their lifetime. Thankfully, fillings can help repair your teeth and protect them from further damage. But these restorations weren’t meant to last a lifetime. In fact, most will need to be replaced eventually. Here’s a guide to how long you can expect your new filling to last, and how to care for it so it continues to protect your smile for as long as possible!

What are Fillings?

Fillings are small restorations that are used to replace areas of decay in your tooth. Your dentist will remove the damaged enamel with a small drill. Once it is cleared away, they will fill the tooth with either an amalgam metal or composite resin filling. These not only replicate the missing enamel but also protect the damaged area of the tooth from further damage from bacteria and plaque.

How Long Do Fillings Last?

Depending on the type of filling used, your restoration could last for many years. For composite resin fillings, most have a lifespan of about ten years, while amalgam fillings could last up to 20. Composite resin fillings have the benefit of being tooth-colored, so nobody will know your tooth has been repaired. Both restorations are extremely durable and allow you to fully use your tooth again with no restrictions.

How Should I Care for My Fillings?

Thankfully, caring for fillings is easy. Just brush and floss as you would your untreated teeth and be careful not to use them to chew on hard items like ice cubes or use them to bite your nails or open packaging.

You can still get cavities on a tooth with fillings, so be sure to care for all your teeth well. In fact, you can get cavities around the restoration if you’re not careful, so diligent brushing and flossing is essential.

Finally, keep in mind that your fillings cannot change color, and thus if you whiten your teeth, they may not be as discreet as they could be. If you are concerned about the shade of your smile, speak to your dentist about professional whitening before you get your fillings so they can be matched to your ideal shade of white.

Remember, getting fillings is an effective way to repair tooth decay and protect it from further damage. With proper care and usage, your restorations can keep your smile looking and feeling its best for many years to come!

About Dr. Schaffeld

Dr. Tyler Schaffeld earned his Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from Central Washington University, and his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Oregon Health and Science University. He is also certified in Basic Life Support and has his minimal sedation permit. He is a proud and active member of such prestigious organizations as the American Dental Association, Oregon Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry.

To schedule an appointment for fillings, please visit our website, or call us at 541-426-3783.