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.

Pros and Cons of Glass Ionomer Fillings

Another choice of dental fillings that provides a great aesthetic option are glass ionomer fillings. Because they are close to the same appearance as your teeth, they are a popular option for filling procedures done near the front of the mouth. Composed of a specialized blend of fluoroaluminosilicate glass powder and acrylic acid, they provide another strong bond and longevity that patients can count on. On average, they have a moderate lifespan of around 5 to 10 years.

Pros

  • Seamless Appearance: Blending into the structure of the tooth, these fillings are virtually invisible compared to something like gold or silver.
  • Chemically Bonded: Glass ionomer fillings bond chemically with the tooth structure which helps to prevent bacteria and worsening of a decaying tooth.
  • Tooth Protection: Compared to other tooth fillings, they slowly release fluoride over time.
  • Simpler Tooth Preparation: More of the healthy tooth structure can be preserved thanks to these fillings requiring less preparation work on the tooth and surrounding area.
  • Cost-Effective: Glass ionomer fillings can be less expensive as other fillings that are also aesthetically pleasing, such as composite dental fillings.

Cons

  • Weaker Tooth Fillings: Glass ionomer dental fillings are not as strong as other types of fillings (like amalgam or composite mentioned earlier). This means in some instances of higher force applied, they may be more prone to chipping or cracking.
  • More Time to Set: Compared to other dental fillings, these can take longer to set, which may require a bigger window of time where you cannot eat or drink.
  • More Likely to Stain: Coffee, tea, and red wine are more likely to stain glass ionomer tooth fillings than other kinds.
  • Limited in Application: Typically, it’s not recommended to use these tooth fillings for larger cavities or areas of high biting force.

Gold Fillings

Most people will be familiar with the trope of a gold-toothed pirate in some of their favorite movies and shows. But, how viable is gold when it comes to tooth work? As fun an image as it is, gold can actually serve as another great option for fillings for your teeth! Dental work throughout history has used gold as an option for helping with teeth, and this is because of its durability and longevity. Capable of lasting over 20 years, gold provides one of the longest-lasting fillings when compared to other materials.

Because gold does not corrode and can withstand a significant amount of force caused while chewing, they are one of the best options for back teeth. The problem comes in how much gold fillings cost. Made from a precious metal, gold fillings can be outside the budget of a filling option for some. But, if you can afford it, it’s usually one of the most recommended filling material options. If you frequently have hard foods, want a choice with a longer average lifespan, and want fewer trips to the dentist for replacing a filling, then gold could be the right option for you.

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.

Fillings We Offer:

  • Amalgam Fillings
  • Composite Fillings

Although we don’t offer glass ionomer or gold fillings, we hope that everything here helps you to make a decision on what type of filling is right for you. Whether you’re replacing an old filling or need a brand new one, our team is here to help. So, if you suspect you might have a cavity, call us today, since the long-term effects can be devastating if left untreated.

Dr. Drew | West Wind Dental

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.