{"id":439,"date":"2023-01-04T15:53:00","date_gmt":"2023-01-04T15:53:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lancasterfamilysmiles.com\/blog\/?p=439"},"modified":"2023-01-23T03:53:53","modified_gmt":"2023-01-23T03:53:53","slug":"how-long-do-dental-fillings-last","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lancasterfamilysmiles.com\/blog\/how-long-do-dental-fillings-last\/","title":{"rendered":"What is the Lifespan of Dental Fillings?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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You likely feel happy if you\u2019ve just gotten dental fillings. After all, your former cavities or tooth decay aren\u2019t a problem anymore! That said, keep in mind that fillings<\/a> don\u2019t last forever; their lifespan is limited. When the time comes, then, you\u2019ll need to know the signs they need replacement. Fortunately, your Lancaster dentist can give you some helpful pointers. Here\u2019s a summary of how long fillings should last, how to tell when to replace them, and how best to care for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How Long Should Fillings Last?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The average lifespan of dental fillings is around ten years. Still, how long your own last will depend on various factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One such element is the fillings\u2019 material. For example, gold and amalgam fillings can last up to 20 years due to their durability. Meanwhile, composite ones can be more fragile but also more cosmetically appealing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Diet also plays a role in a filling’s lifespan. You see, sugary foods may cause cavities beneath existing fillings and cause them to fail. On the other hand, biting down on hard items can increase wear and tear on treated teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Do You Know When to Replace Them?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A filling usually needs replacement when it cracks or wears down. At that point, it\u2019s no longer protecting the underlying tooth from decay. Fillings sometimes fall out, too, thus requiring you to get a new one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Of course, you may not notice when a filling has such problems. For that reason, attend routine checkups so your dentist can spot trouble early. They can use an explorer tool to see whether the filling is still sealed. A dentist could also take X-rays to see if there\u2019s decay under the filling or anywhere nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Do You Care for Fillings?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

To ensure your fillings last a long time, you\u2019ll need to care for them. The best ways to do so include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n