If you have ever gotten a dental filling to deal with a toothache or cavity, you were probably pretty happy with what they did for you and have not thought about them since.
However, dental fillings don’t last forever. Even if you’ve taken great care of your oral health since, they are going to fail at some point or another. If you’re wondering when that might be, and what you can do about it, here’s a guide that may potentially help you.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
How long you can expect your dental fillings to last can vary depending on several factors. Placement is one—dental fillings that are constantly under pressure are likely to fail faster than those that aren’t.
Another major variable is what the fillings are made out of. There are two common kinds of fillings: metal amalgam and tooth-colored composite resin. Metal amalgam fillings tend to last for around 15 years, while tooth-colored composite tends to last closer to 7 or 8 on average.
How to Know When It’s Time to Replace a Filling
If your dental filling is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s natural to start to feel a little bit like you might have when you needed the dental filling in the first place. You could notice dental filling coming loose, but you might just feel the sensitivity of your tooth being exposed.
If you have had a dental filling in the past, it’s all the more important to see your dentist often. They’ll be able to use imaging technology to understand what’s happening under the surface, and they’ll help you to replace your restorations before they break or fall out.
What to Do if a Filling Falls Out
If you do lose a dental filling, don’t panic. Try your best to avoid biting down on it, and see if you can’t gently take it out of your mouth and set it to the side. Then, call your dentist and schedule an emergency appointment.
In the meantime, you can use a temporary filling material to protect the interior of your tooth, and you can take over-the-counter pain relievers to ease any discomfort you’re feeling. Act fast, and your tooth will be back to normal in no time!
About Our Practice
At White Clay Dental Associates, we feel enormously privileged to have been able to serve members of our community for over 50 years, connecting multiple generations of families with the oral healthcare that they need. No matter your age or the condition that your teeth are in, we’d be happy to welcome you into our dental office and you with your problems.
If you have any questions about dental fillings, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (302) 731-4225.