Most of us will face the necessity of getting dental fillings at some point in life. Naturally, when preparing for the procedure, patients want to know: How long will a tooth filling last? Please read our article to learn about different types of dental fillings and their life spans they have. 

 

How Long Will a Tooth Filling Last?

In general, dental fillings can last between 5 and 20 years. Several factors influence the longevity of your dental filling:

Let us look at what longevity you can expect from different types of dental fillings:

 

Resin Composite Fillings

Resin composite is one of the most commonly used materials for dental fillings. It has a color very similar to natural teeth and provides reasonable durability when properly cared for. Resin composite fillings can last up to 7 years. 

 

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer dental fillings tend to be the least durable option, lasting only up to 5 years. Due to their short lifespan, glass ionomer fillings are mainly used to treat temporary baby teeth. On the plus side, glass ionomer fillings can be less expensive compared to other options. 

 

Ceramic and Porcelain Fillings

Ceramic fillings tend to be more expensive than resin composite fillings, but they also tend to be more durable. On average, ceramic fillings can last for up to 15 years. This material is also tooth-colored and looks very natural in the mouth.

 

Silver Amalgam and Gold Fillings

Metal, such as silver amalgam and gold, tend to provide the most durability compared to any other option. Silver amalgam fillings can last for up to 15 years, and gold fillings for up to 20 years. However, nowadays, these materials lose their popularity because they are noticeable in the mouth. Metal fillings are mainly used to treat teeth at the back of the mouth that are not visible when you speak. 

 

How to Make Your Dental Fillings Last Longer

Regardless of the material your fillings are made of, there are several practices you can incorporate into your routine to preserve your fillings for as long as possible:

 

Make an Appointment at Dream Smile City

Get high-quality dental fillings at the Dream Smile City dental office. Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at our office today. We will carefully examine your oral health and offer you the most suitable dental filling option, taking your goals and needs into consideration. Our specialists are looking forward to your visit.