How Long Do Dental Fillings Last? Signs You May Need a Replacement

A dental filling is an extensively used and highly popular procedure that is used across the globe. It is seen as a credible and highly reliable method to fill the holes in teeth and get long-term relief from pain and sensitivity. The main aim of a filling is to restore the functionality of damaged teeth due to deep-rooted decay. Once you get the procedure done, you need to make sure you properly care for it to increase its longevity. As soon as you see the first sign of your filling being worn off, you must repair it as early as possible to prevent further damage. If you also have tooth fillings or are thinking of getting them, then this article is for you. Here, we will discuss all you need to know about the longevity of dental fillings, the factors that affect their lifespan, signs indicating the need for replacement, and what happens if you delay it. Read on to find out.

How Long Do Dental Fillings Typically Last?

The longevity of dental fillings is largely based on the material that you use for them. If you want to get fillings that are more durable and long lasting, you should get them in gold, ceramic, and amalgam. The gold ones are typically the most durable and can last you for up to 30 years if properly cared for. The other can also last for about 10 to 15 years. However, if you are on a budget and you get your fillings in composite resin, they can only last you for up to 10 years with proper care. Remember, you can always get a replacement once the old filling wears off.

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Fillings

As mentioned, you can increase the longevity of your dental fillings with proper care and maintenance. However, there are a few things that can largely affect the lifespan of your fillings, often reducing their longevity. The top one is compromised oral hygiene. If you do not brush and floss regularly, the longevity of your dental fillings will be greatly affected. The kind of material used is a major factor that contributes to it. Moreover, high consumption of sugary and acidic foods can also reduce the lifespan of fillings, making your teeth more prone to decay and damage. The dentists providing tooth filling near me can conveniently guide you further on this.

Common Signs Your Dental Filling Needs Replacement

Some common signs that you can watch for, to know if your dental fillings require a replacement include a sharp pain in teeth when consuming something hot or cold, prominent cracks in the teeth that hint at fillings being worn off, discoloration around the area of fillings, and feeling that the filling is loosened or is about to come off. In such a case, you should immediately reach out to your dentist and get the dental filling replaced at your earliest convenience.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Damaged Filling

A loose, worn-out, and damaged dental filling is a critical matter that you shouldn’t ignore. If you delay getting your damaged filling replaced, the decay can worsen under the filling, and may lead to permanent tooth loss. Moreover, it can also lead to the development of an infection underneath the filling, leading to an abscess. Not getting the issue treated on time can result in the need for more invasive and greatly expensive treatments later on.

How Dentists Check If Your Filling Needs Replacing

Dentists check for signs of the replacement of your filling using expert methods. They rely on technology and special tools to pinpoint if you need a replacement for your filling. For this, they use a variety of evaluative tests and tools such as X-rays and dental probes. They may also do a visual inspection of your teeth to detect signs of damage to your dental fillings.

What Happens During a Dental Filling Replacement?

The process of replacing old, damaged, and worn-out fillings is very easy and simple. For this, your dentist would carefully remove the old fillings and thoroughly clean the area using special tools. They will make sure the cavity is disinfected and the tooth is prepared for the new filling. Once done, they will place the new filling material and fix it to your tooth. After this, they will finish the process and polish the surface so you get a smooth and perfect bite alignment.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Fillings

If you want to extend the lifespan of your dental fillings, there are a few things you can do. As per dental experts, regular brushing and flossing are ideal to increase the longevity of your dental fillings. While it may seem like a regular task that holds no importance, it is a crucial part of aftercare. Moreover, you must also avoid eating foods that are sugary and can stick to your teeth, such as candies, chocolates, etc. If you have a habit of teeth grinding at night, get a nightguard so it does not affect your fillings. Lastly, make sure you go for regular dental checkups. You can look for credible dentists, such as LiT Dental, providing tooth fillings near me for a smooth experience.

CONCLUSION

A dental filling is seen as a credible and highly reliable method to fill the holes in teeth and get long-term relief from pain and sensitivity. The main aim of a filling is to restore the functionality of damaged teeth due to deep-rooted decay. The longevity of dental fillings is largely based on the material that you use for them. If you want to get fillings that are more durable and long-lasting, you should get them in gold, ceramic, and amalgam. For best results, make sure you opt for a highly-rated dentist, such as LiT Dental.