Dental fillings are an incredible way to restore teeth damaged by decay, wear, or even mild trauma. They help you maintain a healthy and functional smile while preventing further dental issues. However, they aren’t invincible, and there may be a point where your dentist needs to replace your filling.
Dental fillings typically last between 5 to 15 years or so. This greatly depends on the location of the filling, your oral care routine, and your overall lifestyle habits. If you notice significant discomfort near your filling, talk to your dentist.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a common procedure used to restore damaged teeth. They’re typically used to address cavities, fractures, and chips. The filling is placed to restore the natural shape of your teeth to restore function and durability to the area.
Fillings don’t just protect the teeth. They prevent further decay and damage while sealing the area against bacteria. Without a filling, the increase of infection rises, which puts you at risk of other health issues.
At Ti Dental, we use composite fillings. These tooth-coloured fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and give you a durable, natural-looking answer to damaged teeth.
Do Dental Fillings Last Forever?
Like most dental solutions, fillings aren’t permanent. Over time, they can wear out due to wear and tear. Fillings typically last between 5 to 15 years before they need replacing, though this does depend on a few factors.
These include:
- The material of the filling: Composite fillings are durable, but their lifespan depends on their placement and exposure.
- The location of the filling: Fillings in teeth that take on more pressure, like molars, tend to experience more wear.
- Your natural bite force: Excessive clenching or grinding can shorten the life of a filling.
- Your oral hygiene habits: Good oral care helps prevent decay around the filling, extending its life.
- Your dietary habits: Certain foods and drinks, such as those high in sugar or acidity, can affect the filling over time.
- Your lifestyle choices: Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can also impact the longevity of your fillings.
With proper care, your filling should last for years. If you ever notice significant discomfort, visit your dentist. They can examine the area and determine if they need to replace your filling.
How to Tell If It’s Time to Replace a Dental Filling
It’s not always easy to know when a dental filling requires replacement. They should always look and feel like your natural teeth, other than a small adjustment period immediately after installation.
You should regularly visit your dentist for thorough examinations and cleanings. During these appointments, your dentist will check the state of your filling. If it’s damaged or needs replacing, they’ll let you know.
However, you should also keep an eye out for:
- Pain or sensitivity, especially when chewing or drinking something hot or cold.
- Visible cracks, chips, or wear in the filling.
- Food getting stuck around or inside the edges of the filling.
- A feeling that the filling has loosened or shifted in place.
These all indicate something wrong with your filling or surrounding teeth. It helps to speak with your dentist to determine what’s causing your symptoms.
Tips for Recovering After a Dental Filling Is Installed
Getting a new filling put in is a quick and effective procedure. However, you’ll likely notice sensitivity afterward—this is entirely natural.
Once you’re home, make sure to:
- Stick to soft foods immediately after the procedure and avoid chewing on the treated tooth while it settles.
- Avoid hard, sticky, or overly hot and cold foods for at least 24 hours.
- Use over-the-counter pain relief, if needed, to handle any mild discomfort.
- Rinse lightly with warm salt water if your gums feel tender.
- Follow any and all aftercare instructions you’ve received.
These steps make recovery much smoother. Always listen to your dentist or surgeon regarding your post-installation recovery. Remember—they’re a professional, and they can help.
How to Take Care of Dental Fillings
After you’ve recovered, you’ll need to properly care for your filling. This is key to extending its lifespan and keeping the rest of your teeth in proper health.
Once your tooth has healed, you should:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth strong.
- Floss daily to clean hard-to-reach areas and prevent decay.
- Minimize consumption of sugary snacks and acidic beverages.
- Avoid biting down on hard objects, like ice or pens, that might damage your fillings.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
Consistent care is the easiest way to protect your fillings. It also helps maintain the rest of your teeth and keeps them healthier. With proper care, your fillings should last for years!
Is It Time to Replace Your Fillings?
A dental filling is a dependable and effective way to repair damaged teeth. However, even with proper care, they don’t last forever. Watch for unusual symptoms and practice proper care to keep your fillings in good shape, and yours should last for years.
If you’re noticing issues with a filling—or any other unusual dental problem—contact our team at Ti Dental. We can help manage your symptoms and treat your problem. We’re here to help, so request an appointment with us today!
