How Long Do Dental Fillings Last? Everything You Need to Know

How Long Do Dental Fillings Last? Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Dental fillings are a common solution to treat cavities and restore the function and appearance of damaged teeth. But how long do these restorations really last?

The answer depends on several factors: the type of filling material, your oral hygiene, and even how you bite or grind your teeth. Let’s explore the typical lifespan of different fillings and how to extend their longevity.

Average Lifespan of Dental Fillings by Material

1. Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

   • Lifespan: 10–15 years (sometimes longer)

   • Notes: Strong and durable, great for molars, but less aesthetic.

   • Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH)

2. Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings

   • Lifespan: 5–10 years

   • Notes: Matches your natural tooth color, but slightly less durable than amalgam.

   • Source: Journal of Conservative Dentistry

3. Gold Fillings

   • Lifespan: 15–30 years

   • Notes: Extremely durable and biocompatible, but very expensive.

   • Source: ADA Science & Research Institute

4. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain)

   • Lifespan: 10–20 years

   • Notes: Highly aesthetic and resistant to staining, but can be brittle.

   • Source: Contemporary Clinical Dentistry

What Affects the Lifespan of Fillings?

Several factors impact how long a filling lasts, including:

• Oral hygiene habits (brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings)

• Dietary choices (high sugar and acidic foods can weaken materials)

• Teeth grinding or clenching (can cause cracks or dislodgment)

• Size and location of the filling (larger or high-bite-pressure areas wear out faster)

• Material used (some are naturally more durable)

A systematic review found that resin-based fillings tend to fail more frequently in larger restorations and when placed in areas of high bite force (Cochrane Oral Health Group).

Signs Your Filling Might Need Replacement

Watch out for the following:

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure

• Sharp edges or a rough texture

• Discoloration around the filling

• Pain or discomfort while chewing

• Visible cracks or missing pieces

These symptoms can indicate a failing filling and may lead to further decay if untreated. Regular checkups allow your dentist to catch early signs of wear.

How to Make Your Fillings Last Longer

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth

• Avoid biting hard objects (e.g. ice, fingernails, pens)

• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth

• Visit your dentist every 6 months for a check-up

According to research from the British Dental Journal, patients who receive regular preventive care have significantly better outcomes with restorations.

Conclusion

Dental fillings don’t last forever, but with the right care and material choice, they can protect your teeth for many years. Whether you have a new composite filling or a gold inlay from a decade ago, regular checkups and good oral hygiene are the keys to making them last.

If you’re unsure about the condition of an old filling, it’s a good idea to schedule a check-up and talk to your dentist about your options.

References

1. NIH – Silver Amalgam Fillings Longevity Study

2. Journal of Conservative Dentistry – Clinical evaluation of composite restorations

3. ADA – Types of Fillings

4. Contemporary Clinical Dentistry – Porcelain restorations

5. Cochrane Library – Failure rates of dental fillings

6. British Dental Journal – Oral health outcomes and restorations