In the past, dentists relied on amalgam mixtures of metals, such as tin, copper, or silver, usually mixed with liquid mercury as a bonding agent, to fill cavities. Though durable, these repairs don’t bond with enamel and expand and contract with temperature changes, which can eventually cause additional damage to the underlying tooth.
Thankfully, dentists today usually use biocompatible, customizable materials to treat tooth decay, but many patients wonder if repairs made with this material last as long. Continue reading to learn more about their typical lifespan!
What are Tooth-Colored Fillings Made From?
If you are accustomed to receiving metal dental work, you might worry that a tooth-colored repair won’t be as durable. Before diving into the potential longevity of these restorations, it’s important to first establish what they’re made from.
For this treatment, your dentist utilizes composite resin that can be carefully customized to match the shade of your enamel for more seamless results. They use this putty-like material to rebuild sections lost to decay, then harden it in place with an ultraviolet curing light. This bonds it to your enamel, preserving and reinforcing more of the natural structure of your teeth than the metallic counterparts.
How Long Do Tooth-Colored Fillings Usually Last?
You might assume that fillings made from tooth-colored materials couldn’t possibly last as long as amalgam restorations, but that’s not necessarily the case. In some cases, metallic versions might last a few years longer, but the difference is negligible in many instances.
For example, you can typically expect a metal filling to last about 10 to 15 years, while composite resin is known to last as long as 5 to 15 years if cared for correctly. With that said, the overall lifespan of your treatment depends significantly on your individual habits and dental condition.
How Can I Help Maintain My Restoration?
Caring for your restoration correctly is essential to keep it in good shape, allowing it to continue protecting your damaged tooth. For example, you should brush and floss your teeth twice daily to remove plaque and bacteria that contribute to dental concerns, like additional cavities or gum disease. These issues might not directly harm your filling, but they can impact the surrounding tissues and cause it to become destabilized or dislodged.
You can also invest in a custom-fitted nightguard or mouthguard to shield your teeth from the pressure of teeth grinding or physical injuries that could otherwise harm the composite resin repair.
Finally, visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning allows them to verify that your dental work is still in good condition and can continue to protect your smile.
Meet the Author
Dr. Nelson Howard has decades of experience helping families improve their lives by enhancing their oral health. He earned his dental degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry, and today, is one of only 490+ providers worldwide to become an Accredited Member of the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He combines a compassionate approach with advanced technology to provide beautiful, resilient treatments, including tooth-colored fillings, intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (760) 599-6559.