Brunette woman in a dental chair smiles after getting a dental filling in Katy, TX

How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

November 17, 2020 4:35 am Published by Peek Dentistry

In this blog post, we discuss what a dental filling is and provide some pointers for extending its longevity.

What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is used after decay is removed from a tooth. The filling fills in the hole left by the cavity. This reinforces the tooth and seals the area from further damage. Fillings can be made from a variety of materials, such as amalgam (silver-colored fillings) or composite resin (tooth-colored fillings).

At Peek Dentistry, we strongly recommend that our patients get a composite resin filling. This durable material is matched to the shade of your teeth so it blends in seamlessly.

How Often Do Fillings Need to Be Replaced?

This depends on how tough you are on your teeth, how well you take care of your smile, and which material your filling is made out of. Typically, a filling can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years.

Ways to Make Your Filling Last Longer

Have Great Oral Hygiene

Even though the cavity is sealed with a filling, that doesn’t keep other cavities from forming on the tooth, which could compromise the filling. One of the best ways to ensure your filling stays in good shape is to take great care of your teeth. Brush twice a day, floss daily, consume a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid tobacco products. These oral health habits will reduce your risk of developing additional tooth decay and cavities.

Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months

By routinely visiting Peek Dentistry, your Katy dentist, we can check whether your filling is still strong and fully functional. If your filling is slightly loose or damaged, we can quickly and easily repair your filling on-site to prevent further damage.

Avoid Biting Hard Candy, Writing Utensils, Ice & Packaging

Like natural teeth, a filling can break or crack. Biting on hard materials, such as jawbreakers, ice, pens, or pencils, or opening packages with your mouth can lead to damaging another tooth or an existing filling.