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A filling is a common dental treatment to repair damage from cavities or trauma. But addressing those pesky cavities is often met with reluctance. If you haven't been able to see a dentist, or you've been delaying your visit, you're not alone. Nearly 1 in 4 adults have untreated tooth decay.

The good news? Your dental treatment can last a long time. Find out how long fillings usually last and get dental care tips to extend their lifespan. Plus, learn how to spot the signs that it's time for a filling to be replaced.

How long do tooth fillings usually last?

Typically, tooth fillings last 10 to 15 years. And while some endure much longer, fillings don't usually last a lifetime. The lifespan of a filling depends on several factors, including the material used to repair the damage.

There are several types of dental fillings. Your dentist will try to choose the best material for your specific circumstance. Each one has pros and cons, and many have varying lifespans. Let's look at the materials to help you estimate how long your filling may last.

Amalgam fillings:15-20 years

Often called "silver fillings," amalgam contains a mixture of metals, such as silver, copper, and tin. It's incredibly durable and the least expensive filling material. Amalgam fillings may last 15 to 20 years on average.

Dentists have used amalgam fillings for over 150 years. But amalgam fillings have become less popular because of their silver color and potential risks. This includes the risk of toxicity from amalgam fillings made with mercury. Children under age 6 shouldn't get amalgam fillings with mercury. You should also avoid amalgam fillings with mercury if you:

• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding

• Have a neurological condition or kidney problem

• Are allergic to mercury

Composite fillings: 7-10 years

Composite resin fillings have become the material of choice for most dentists. These tooth-colored fillings are popular because they can match the rest of your teeth. But this cosmetic benefit isn't the only advantage of composite fillings. Composite material is less temperature-sensitive and more malleable than amalgams.

That said, composite fillings have an average lifespan of 7 to 10 years. They are more expensive than amalgam fillings. And they may need to be replaced more often.

Gold fillings: 20 years

Gold fillings are usually considered the most durable, as they can last 20 years or longer. Larger molar teeth may be the best candidates for gold fillings because the strong material can withstand lots of chewing. But gold fillings are also the most expensive material. And they require more than one dental visit to place.

Ceramic fillings: 15 years

Ceramic fillings have been on the rise with recent advances in dental scanners and other digital resources. Like composite fillings, they are tooth-colored for a more natural appearance. They can be more functional because they're designed digitally to mimic the original anatomy of your tooth. With a ceramic filling, your bite may be nearly the same as it was before the cavity.

As a result of advanced techniques, ceramic fillings can last up to 15 years with proper care. But they are one of the most expensive options, and may require multiple dental visits.

Glass ionomer fillings: 5 years

Glass ionomer fillings are tooth-colored and usually contain glass particles and organic acids. Some composite fillings may also have a glass ionomer component. When placed, the glass ionomer in these fillings slowly releases fluoride, which can help strengthen the tooth and prevent further nerve damage.

The downside is that glass ionomer fillings may be less durable than other materials. They're usually unsuitable for larger cavities and typically last around 5 years.

What other factors affect how long a filling lasts?

Several other factors affect the lifespan of a filling. Here's what you need to know.

Eating habits

Your diet is one of the most important factors that affect how long your filling lasts.

Highly acidic or sugary foods may cause fillings to wear out faster. The natural bacteria in your mouth convert sugars -- from sodas, candies, and other foods -- into acids. These acids damage your tooth structure, causing cavities around your fillings. The decay can slowly loosen a filling, causing it to fail.

Chewing hard and crunchy foods -- like nuts, hard candy, or ice -- may stress your fillings and cause tooth fractures. It can also damage your tooth structure around the filling.

Cavity size

When you have a large cavity, your dentist has to remove more of your natural tooth structure to place a filling. This weakens the strength and structure of the tooth, making it more prone to cracks from biting and chewing. Small tooth fractures tend to loosen existing fillings. The filling material may also fracture or, in some cases, dislodge completely.

Filling placement

Sometimes, improper placement can make a filling fail or reduce its lifespan. If the environment is compromised by saliva before placing the filling, it may not properly bond and will come loose. But don't worry, failure rates are low.

Teeth grinding

Clenching and grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism, can significantly reduce the lifespan of fillings. The constant pressure and friction from grinding can wear down filling materials. This makes them more prone to cracking or breaking.

Persistent grinding can also compromise the edges of a filling where it meets the natural tooth. This leads to small gaps where bacteria can enter. It can be hard to clean these small holes with brushing and flossing, which increases the risk of decay in these areas. New cavities weaken the bond between the filling and the tooth, causing the filling to fail over time.

Tips to maintain fillings

Maintaining the health and longevity of your tooth fillings requires consistent care. Proper oral hygiene ensures the durability of your fillings and helps preserve your natural smile.

Here are some essential tips to maintain your fillings and make them last as long as possible:

• Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.

• Get regular dental checkups and cleanings.

• Talk to your dentist about tooth sensitivity -- or other problems -- promptly.

• Floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth.

• Limit acidic and sugary foods.

• Avoid chewing hard foods for extended periods.

• Consider wearing a mouthguard while you sleep to reduce bruxism.

• Don't use your teeth as tools to open packages or trim your fingernails.

• Drink water to help wash away food particles.

• Try to quit smoking.

How do you know when a filling needs to be replaced?

Regular dental checkups will give you the most insight into when a filling needs to be replaced. Your dentist can check your fillings and look for decay around existing fillings.

You should see a dentist as soon as possible if a filling comes loose. In most cases, a new filling can be placed in the area to restore your tooth. Sometimes, you'll need a crown to cover and restore your tooth.

Tooth sensitivity is another sign that your filling may need to be replaced. The sensitivity could be coming from a cavity underneath your existing filling. This is called secondary decay or recurrent caries. A dentist can check for secondary decay and suggest the best treatment.

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