In modern dentistry, composite fillings have become quite a popular choice for restoring decayed or damaged teeth. They offer aesthetic benefits by closely matching the natural color of your teeth and providing durability and strength.
However, a common question among dental patients revolves around the lifespan of these fillings. How long do composite fillings last before needing replacement?
What are Composite Fillings?
When a cavity or hole forms in a tooth, dentists can fix it with a filling. Most dental patients get a composite filling, which is made from a mix of ceramic and plastic materials.
Dentists create them to look like your natural teeth. They’re custom-made to match the color of your tooth, so when you smile, no one can tell you have a filling. It’s a convenient option for a variety of dental restorations apart from filling, including crowns
Composite fillings are a better choice compared to traditional amalgam fillings.
So, How Do Composite Fillings Work?
Composite fillings are made to look like your natural teeth so they fit in perfectly. They work well for fixing cavities in the front of your mouth because they blend seamlessly with your other teeth.
These fillings stick to your tooth instead of just stuffing the hole like regular fillings. This means the dentist will not have to remove as much of your natural tooth when putting in the filling.
How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?
Composite fillings last an average of 7 to 10 years. Some may last even longer if you take good care of them and maintain top-notch oral health.
But a few things affect the longevity of your filling. These include how big the filling is, where it’s in your mouth, how well you care for your teeth, and many more. For example, if you grind your teeth or eat hard or sticky foods, your filling might wear down faster.
So, while composite fillings are durable and can last a long time, it’s important to monitor them and visit your dentist regularly to ensure they’re still in good shape.
Factors Affecting the Longevity of a Composite Filling
1. Location
If the filling is in a busy area of your mouth where you chew a lot, like your back teeth, it’s more likely to wear down faster because it’s going through a lot of action.
2. Size of the Filling
Imagine you have a small hole in a wall versus a big one. The smaller one is easier to patch up and lasts longer. It’s the same with fillings. Smaller fillings hold up better over time than larger ones, which might be more challenging to stay in place.
3. Eating and Drinking Habits
Certain foods and drinks, especially sugary or acidic ones like soda or candy, can weaken the filling and the tooth around it.
4. Grinding Your Teeth
Sometimes, people grind or clench their teeth, especially at night. This can put extra pressure on the filling, making it wear down faster.
5. Taking Care of Your Teeth
Just like how you need to clean your room regularly to keep it nice, you need to brush and floss your teeth to keep them healthy. If you don’t, bacteria can build up and cause new cavities around the filling, making it less effective.
6. Any New Damage to Your Teeth
Sometimes accidents happen, like getting hit in the mouth while playing sports. If something happens to your tooth, like it gets chipped or more decay forms, it can also affect the filling.
Care Tips for Your Composite Fillings
Many things can affect the longevity of a filling. It’s not just about what it’s made of, but also how well you care for your teeth. This applies to composite resin fillings, too.
If you don’t take good care of them, they can develop weak spots, hurt your teeth when you chew, and even lead to more cavities. You need to take care of your teeth to keep your fillings in good shape which includes—
1. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste to maintain the color of the filling.
2. Flossing every day to keep your mouth healthy.
3. Avoiding mouthwashes with alcohol, as they can be harmful to your composite resin fillings.
4. If you’ve already got many fillings, fluoride gels can help strengthen your teeth and make your fillings last longer.
5. Avoiding extremely hot or cold food.
Get a High Quality and Long Lasting Composite Filling at Norwood Dental Today!
Composite fillings offer a natural solution for dental restoration. Depending on factors like placement, size, and oral hygiene, they typically last 7 to 10 years. By maintaining good dental habits and attending regular check-ups, you can extend the lifespan of your fillings and enjoy a healthy smile for years.
If you plan to get a long-lasting composite filling or if it’s time to replace it, call us at 952.467.3518. Our friendly and skilled team of dental professionals at Norwood Dental is here to help you get your smile back in shape.
Don’t wait—schedule your dental appointment today!
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