How Long Do Fillings Last?
Depending on the type of filling material used, dental fillings usually last between ten and twenty years. Gold fillings tend to last the longest, at about twenty years. Porcelain and ceramic fillings last about fifteen years. At the low end, composite fillings can last about seven years, and glass ionomer fillings last only five years.
However, just like most common dental procedures, the longevity of the benefits is highly reliant on your oral health routine. If you have good oral hygiene, your tooth fillings will likely last much longer. Poor dental health, though, can undermine the tooth structure and result in further decay.
Dental Filling Procedure
With the aim of addressing tooth decay and repairing decayed, cracked, or chipped teeth, dental fillings are a time-tested way to repair teeth, address tooth sensitivity, and create a more natural appearance. In general, the procedure takes only a few hours, which can vary depending on the size of the decayed portion.
- X-rays and anesthesia: Before the procedure starts, your dentist will X-ray the affected teeth and then use local anesthesia to numb the area so you don’t feel discomfort.
- Remove decay: Using a drill, your dental professional will remove the cavity so that the area is ready for the new filling. This part of the visit may take longer for larger cavities.
- Cavity preparation: Depending on the type of filling you’re receiving, the decayed area may need a bonding agent or gel to ensure a strong bond with the dental filling material.
- Filling installation: Once the area’s prepared, your dentist places the cavity fillings and ensures that they closely match your natural tooth color to create a seamless look.
- Curing and polishing: After being placed, composite fillings need to be cured using UV light, then (regardless of material) your filling must be polished to remove rough edges.
- Final inspection: Before your office visit ends, your dentist will use specialized tools to check your bite alignment, the filling’s smoothness, and its overall appearance.
Amalgam Fillings Versus Composite Resin Fillings
If you have specific concerns about the different types of filling material, you should consult with your dentist. According to the American Dental Association, you should always trust your dentist in regards to which dental filling material is best for your circumstances.
Dental amalgam fillings (or silver fillings) last longer, are less expensive, and are easier to place. Composite fillings, on the other hand, tend to look a little more natural, form stronger bonds with your teeth, and are less sensitive to temperature. As a tradeoff, though, composite materials are more expensive and don’t usually last as long as amalgam.
Call West Wind for Your Filling Needs
If you’re in need of dental fillings, the experienced team at West Wind Dental is here to help. As a trusted dental practice in Portage, MI, we’ve worked with thousands of clients to provide them with permanent and temporary fillings. So, if you suspect you might have a cavity, call us today, since the long-term effects can be devastating if left untreated.
Dr. Andrew Hamilton, DDS, FAGD
Dr. Hamilton is an active member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association (ADA), the Michigan Dental Association (MDA), the Kalamazoo Valley District Dental Society (KVDDS), the American Academy of Implant dentistry (AAID), the International Academy of Facial Aesthetics (IAFA) and also attends courses with the Pikos Institute in Northwest Florida. He is a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICIO), has achieved fellowship status in the International Dental Implant Association (IDIA) and in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), has graduated from and is an alumnus of the Kois Center program in Seattle, and is on the faculty of the Global Dental Implant Academy (GDIA).
The little spare time left over is spent Steelhead and Salmon fishing and the occasional round of golf.