How Long Can You Expect Your Tooth-Colored Filling to Last?

A tooth-colored filling can provide a natural-looking solution for tooth decay. Bear in mind, though, that you can’t expect it to last forever. Sooner or later, it will need to be replaced. This, of course, raises an important question: just how long will it be before you need a new restoration? To help you plan for the future, here is a closer look at the typical lifespan of a tooth-colored filling. 

What Does the Lifespan of a Tooth-Colored Filling Normally Look Like?

The longevity of a dental filling is heavily influenced by the material used to create it. Since tooth-colored fillings are made out of composite resin, they can normally be expected to last around 7 to 10 years. Of course, this isn’t set in stone; your own filling may have a longer or shorter lifespan depending on a number of variables, including diet, oral hygiene, and any trauma that the tooth may suffer.

How Will You Know That You Need a New Tooth-Colored Filling?

It may be time to have your tooth-colored filling replaced if you have noticed any of the following warning signs:

• The restored tooth has become more sensitive to hot or cold foods.
• You have started experiencing discomfort whenever you bite down or chew.
• Your filling has become chipped or looks particularly worn down.
• Food has started getting trapped around your filling (which is a sign that the restoration doesn’t fit as snugly as it used to).
• Your filling has fallen off the tooth completely.

In some cases, it may not necessarily be obvious whether a new filling is actually needed. Your dentist can take a closer look at your restoration and your tooth in order to figure out whether it’s time to get a replacement.

How Can You Extend the Lifespan of a Tooth-Colored Filling?

Proper maintenance is essential for helping a tooth-colored filling last as long as possible. Naturally, this means sticking to a good oral hygiene routine. Be sure to give the restored tooth plenty of attention whenever you brush and floss your teeth.

Additionally, it’s important to be aware of risk factors that can cause your filling to wear down faster. Try to stay away from hard foods that can put an excessive amount of pressure on your restoration. On top of that, if you grind or clench your teeth while you’re asleep, consider wearing a nightguard; doing so will help protect your filling (and the rest of your smile) from unnecessary damage.

Tooth-colored fillings are highly durable, but that’s not the same as being indestructible. It always pays to keep an eye out for signs that your filling might need to be replaced soon so that you can make arrangements to see your dentist in the near future.

About the Author

Dr. William J. Twohig has over four decades of dental experience. He prides himself on taking a holistic approach to dentistry, which means he strives to protect the overall health of his patients when treating their smiles. To that end, he offers mercury-free tooth-colored fillings made out of biocompatible materials. If you’re interested in getting a tooth-colored filling, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Twohig at his practice in Weyauwega by visiting his website or calling (920) 867-3101.