How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

Did you know that your filling for a cavity or broken tooth won’t last forever? That’s right. While some fillings can last up to 20 years or longer, you will almost always have to get your filling replaced. Read on to learn more about dental fillings, why you need them and when you need to get them replaced.

What Is A Dental Filling?

When you have a cavity, tooth decay or a chipped tooth, your dentist will use a filling to replace the damaged part of your tooth. Your dentist starts by sanding away the decay and then fills it with a substance. The most common substances and their average lifespans are:

• Amalgam (an alloy of mercury, silver, copper, tin and sometimes zinc) – 15 years
• Gold – 15 to 30 years
• Porcelain or Ceramic – 10 to 20 years
• Composite Resin – 5 years

When Do I Need My Filling Replaced?

Depending on the material, size, location and dental hygiene, a filling can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years. Since a filling is not part of your tooth, every time you eat, drink and brush your teeth, it loosens. Once it loosens to a certain point, food and bacteria can make their way inside and cause further tooth decay. That’s why visiting your dentist for regular checkups is important even if you maintain good oral hygiene habits.

Signs You May Need A New Filling

Getting an x-ray during your dental cleaning is the best way to spot tooth decay around your filling. Other times, you might experience increased tooth pain or sensitivity. Sometimes, your filling will just fall out. Either way, if you suspect your filling is loose, gone or compromised, call your dentist right away. Waiting until your next routine checkup is a recipe for further tooth decay.

What Happens If You Don’t Take Care Of A Loose Filling?

If you don’t visit your dentist regularly or at the first sign of a loose filling, the progression of tooth decay follows a similar path to that when you have a cavity. As the decay spreads throughout your tooth, it eventually reaches the pulp, or the part of your tooth that contains the nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues. To remedy this, you need a root canal, which involves removing the affected pulp and filling the missing parts. The root canal procedure is a lot more complex and expensive than getting a standard filling. That’s why early detection and treatment for a loose filling is so important.

When To See Your Dentist

Dentists on the Gold Coast provides general dentistry and preventative dental care services in Queensland. You should visit us every six months for an exam and teeth clean. If you experience any of the following symptoms between exams, you may have a loose filling or another issue caused by tooth decay:

• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Teeth sensitivity to heat and cold
• Tooth or mouth pain
• Loose tooth
• Persistent bad breath
• Mouth sores

To schedule an appointment or for emergency dental care, call Dentists on the Gold Coast on 07 5689 5460.