A tooth filling, also known as a dental filling, is one of the most popular ways to restore teeth that are in bad shape due to decay, injury, or imperfections. They have been the standard for rebuilding teeth for as long as dentistry has existed. The procedure of placing a tooth filling is simple, quick, and very beneficial to the health of the oral cavity. When considering dental restorations, it is a good idea to become familiar with the lifespan of each option. This allows patients to make an educated decision on which option is most suitable for them.
Tooth fillings can last anywhere from five to 30 years. However, on average, they last about 15 years. While the restoration is intended to be a permanent restoration, it is hard to ensure that due to everyday wear and tear in the mouth. Wear and tear occur over time as a result of eating and teeth grinding (bruxism).
What is important to know is that the lifespan of a tooth filling relies heavily on the type of material used. For example, gold tooth fillings are said to last the longest (about 15 to 30 years) as the material is strong and very reliable. However, composite resin tooth fillings may not last more than 5-7 years as the material is often used for temporary purposes. That said, the most common tooth filling material is porcelain, which is a good in-between. It offers a natural appearance while lasting about 10 to 15 years on average.
Tooth fillings are much more likely to last longer if the oral cavity is maintained carefully and properly. Outlined below are a few tips from a general dentist on how to make a tooth filling last:
Even the best oral hygiene routine cannot prevent everyday wear and tear. Fillings can wear down over time because they are not as strong as natural tooth enamel. Bacteria can enter the tooth through worn fillings, which can lead to further decay and damage. Patients should call the dentist to replace a willing if they experience the following:
Are you in need of tooth fillings to address dental damage? The Dentplants Dental Implant Center team is here to answer your questions and go over concerns you may have when trying to determine what type of restoration best fits your needs. Reach out to our Tysons office to learn more about our dental restoration options or to schedule a consultation appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.dentplants.com or call Dentplants Dental Implant Center at (703) 291-9006 for an appointment in our Tysons office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Filling in Tysons, VA.
When people fail to care for their teeth properly, they can end up with dental cavities that require a tooth filling. When there is a cavity, it will need to be filled to prevent further decay and infection. The following article offers oral care tips that can help you prevent cavities and the need for…
Implant-supported dentures are a common choice for individuals seeking a more permanent, high-functioning alternative to traditional tooth replacement options. For those tired of loose dentures or messy adhesives, this solution can restore confident eating and speaking. Exploring the basics and benefits of this smile restoration is the first step in learning if you could be…
Laser dentistry offers an alternative to ultrasonic drills by using focused light to remove tooth decay, shape tissue, and sanitize surfaces. Although the traditional drill delivers reliable results for many dental needs, dental lasers have improved the effectiveness of conservative techniques and patient comfort. A trusted dentist can recommend one approach over the other after…
All-on-X implant treatment has become a transformative option for individuals seeking full-arch restoration, and understanding several important factors before choosing all-on-X is essential.Before patients undergo all-on-implant placement, their dental provider will need to determine if they are ideal candidates. Factors that contribute to this include: Sufficient bone density Good overall oral health Healthy gum tissue…
