How Long Do Dental Fillings Last? Tips to Make Yours Last Longer

 Dental fillings are one of the most common restorative treatments in dentistry, used to repair cavities and restore the structure of a tooth. If you've recently had a filling—or if you're wondering how long your old one might hold up—you’re not alone. Many patients ask us, “How long do dental fillings last?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but with the right care and a bit of dental wisdom, your fillings can last many years.

Let’s explore how long different types of dental fillings typically last, what factors affect their lifespan, and what you can do to make yours last as long as possible.

Dental Fillings Bradford
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material used, your oral habits, and your overall dental hygiene. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Amalgam (Silver) Fillings – These have great longevity of up to 10 to 15 years, sometimes longer. They are often the filling material of choice for teeth in the backward of your mouth where chewing and pressure are the strongest.

  • Composite (Tooth-Coloured) Fillings – They generally last from 5 to 10 years, however, advancements in composite materials are making them stronger than ever. They are the most natural dye for filling material as they blend in with your existing teeth.

  • Gold Fillings – Gold fillings are seldom used today due to cost, but they can last up to 15 to 30 years and are incredibly strong.

  • Ceramic Fillings – Often made from porcelain, ceramic fillings are stronger than composite fillings and aesthetically pleasing. They can also last anywhere between 10 to 15 years.

Keep in mind, these are average estimates. With good care, many patients enjoy fillings that last well beyond the typical range.

Also Read: Top 5 things to know before starting your teeth straighting journey

What Causes Fillings to Fail?

Even the best dental fillings aren’t invincible. Here are a few common reasons they may fail:

  • Tooth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding your teeth wears down fillings and can cause cracks or chips.

  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Bacteria can sneak under a poorly maintained filling and cause new decay.

  • Diet: A high-sugar, acidic diet can weaken both your natural tooth and the filling.

  • Trauma: Chewing ice, hard sweets, or unexpected accidents can damage your fillings.

It’s also important to know that fillings don’t last forever. Over time, they can shrink, wear out, or loosen, leaving your tooth vulnerable to further decay or infection.

Tips to Make Your Dental Fillings Last Longer

While you can’t make a filling last forever, you can help it go the distance. Here’s how:

1. Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

Brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash are examples of ways to ensure your mouth stays clean, preventing bacteria from attacking the edges of your filling(s).

2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Routine dentist appointments help importantly identify issues early. This enables your dentist to manage your filling(s) by noting if it shows any wear/tear, cracks, or even decay underneath.

3. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

Hard candies, ice, and the constant snacking of sticky foods can all work against your fillings since these activities all relieve stress alone can independently compromise the life of your fillings.

4. Use a Mouthguard if You Grind Your Teeth

Weakening your fillings by nighttime grinding, is one of many paced actions that can hurt your fillings. Consider yourself purchasing a custom nightguard to protect your teeth and fillings while you sleep.

5. Eat a Balanced Diet

Eating a healthy meal that is high in calcium, high in vitamin d, low in acid, and low in sugar is simply the right dietary option for you to maintain dental ability and help your fillings last.

Need Dental Fillings in Bradford? We’ve Got You Covered

If you are in the Bradford region and are considering a filling (or would like someone you trust to inspect a filling you already have) - Eccleshill Dental is here to help.

Our team are dedicated to giving you high-quality care with empathy, using contemporary filling materials that are strong yet appear natural. Whatever your need, whether you are having your first or replacement filling, we will hold your hand through every step of the process, supporting and protecting you the whole way!

Book your appointment today at Eccleshill Dental and take the next step toward a healthier, stronger smile.

Call us now or book online – your smile deserves it.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Professional vs. At-Home Teeth Whitening: What’s Worth Your Money?

Image
A bright, confident smile never goes out of fashion. Whether you are preparing for a special occasion or just want to boost your self-esteem, teeth whitening is a popular way to improve your appearance. If you have searched the term "Teeth Whitening Bradford", you would have probably come across two routing options: professional teeth whitening treatment at a dental clinic, or over-the-counter teeth whitening kits available for home use. The question is, which procedure offers the best value for your money? Let’s break it down so you can make the right choice for your smile—and your wallet. At-Home Teeth Whitening: Convenient but Limited At-home whitening kits are everywhere. You can find them in pharmacies, online shops, and even supermarkets. They range from whitening strips and gels to LED light systems and whitening toothpastes. The appeal? They're cheap, easy to use, and available without a prescription. However, their results can be inconsistent. Pros of At-Home Ki...
Read more

Teeth Whitening for Special Occasions: What to Expect

Image
  Every special occasion you’re celebrating, whether it’s your wedding day, a milestone birthday, a graduation, or a job interview, probably comes with a desire for you to look and feel your best. One of the best and most confidence-boosting ways to improve your appearance is to have a brighter, whiter smile. That's why professional teeth whitening is becoming increasingly common for these types of occasions. If you are getting your teeth whitened in Bradford in preparation for a special occasion, here is what to expect from preparation to results, and how to ensure your smile shines on your special day. Why Choose Professional Teeth Whitening? The reality is: it’s a bit of a lottery with over-the-counter whitening products. Whitening strips, toothpastes, DIY kits, etc., typically have good intentions and offer bold promises. However no results, sensitivity, and, often, inconsistency tend to be the norm. The beauty of professionally whitening teeth is that dentists are skilled pr...
Read more

Dental Implants at Eccleshill Dental: Your Path to a Beautiful Smile

 At Eccleshill Dental in Bradford, we understand how important it is to feel confident in your smile. Missing teeth affect not only the aesthetics of your mouth but also your overall oral health. Fortunately, dental implants offer a long-term , natural-looking solution for lost teeth. Not only do they help restore your smile, but they also bring it back to its best. What Are Dental Implants? Dental implants consist of small titanium posts that are surgically embedded into your jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. These implants are designed to integrate with the bone, creating a solid, permanent base to support replacement teeth. Once the implant has fully fused with the bone, we can attach a crown, bridge, or denture, providing both function and form. Why Choose Dental Implants? There are several advantages to choosing dental implants over other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. Some of the key benefits include: Durability : With proper care, dent...
Read more