If you have dental fillings, rest assured that your weaker teeth are just fine. The treatment is great at protecting damaged and decayed pearly whites. Still, don’t forget that your fillings won’t last forever; you’ll need to replace them after enough time passes. Your Colorado Springs dentist will gladly help you out with that replacement work. To that end, here’s a primer on dental fillings, their lifespan, and when to replace them.
What’s the Lifespan of a Dental Filling?
While an average dental filling can last about ten years, the exact lifespan varies from patient to patient. How long your own fillings work will depend on various factors.
A dental filling’s material is one such factor of note. When made of amalgam, you can expect it’ll be durable and last (if well-maintained) roughly 15 years or so. Glass iomer fillings are fragile, so they only work for about five years at most.
The patient’s lifestyle is another big influence. After all, a filling can be short or long-lived based on your eating habits, oral hygiene, and similar activities. Your treatment results could last a great deal of time if you keep your smile super strong and healthy.
When Should a Filling Be Replaced?
Besides its age, several things can help you tell if a filling needs replacement. You just need to be on the lookout for the relevant signs and signals.
For example, a filling that’s cracked or worn down should be replaced. It’ll be less effective once it’s developed flaws in its surface, putting your tooth at risk of decay. Failing to switch it out could lead to a severe cavity or an infection.
You’ll also want to replace fillings in any sensitive teeth. Once the areas around the resin start hurting, your treatment has begun to fail.
How Should You Care for Your Fillings?
To ensure your dental fillings reach their full lifespans, look after them with the tips below:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene – Plaque will build up and reach your tooth if the area near your filling isn’t clean. So, remember to brush twice daily and floss once daily.
- Get Frequent Dental Checkups – When you attend dental checkups every six months, your dentist can notice issues that might threaten your dental fillings.
- Quit Your Bad Oral Habits – Since habits like teeth grinding and nail-biting damage fillings, avoid them as best you can.
How long your dental fillings last will depend on you. That being the case, look after them well and see your dental provider for help!
About the Practice
Colorado Springs Complete Dentistry is based in Colorado Springs, CO. Led by the terrific Dr. Hayley Patterson, our practice strives to meet all of our patients’ dental needs! You can count on us for preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative treatments, as well as emergency oral care. Whether you’re coming for a checkup or a dental filling, our team is always ready to help! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (719)-634-3204.