If you have a cavity or small crack in your tooth, composite resin fillings — also called tooth-colored fillings — are a popular option to restore your smile. How long do composite resin fillings last? The short answer is between five and ten years, though with excellent care, some fittings can last up to 15 years.
As a trusted provider of dental fillings in Palm Beach Gardens, Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., P.A., explains how you can extend the life of your dental work. Read on to learn more.
What Are Composite Resin Fillings?
Composite resin fillings are one of the modern tooth filling types available to you. Engineers developed the material from plastic and fine glass particles, aiming to closely match the natural shade of your teeth.
While the expected lifespan of composite resin is slightly shorter than silver, the cosmetic benefits are worth it for most people. Many people prefer this filling material not only because it looks more natural but also because it requires less removal of healthy tooth material than silver amalgam.
What’s the Typical Composite Filling Lifespan?
Today’s composite fillings last from five to 10 years. With care, you might extend that to 15 years. By comparison, silver amalgam fillings usually last between 10 and 15 years, and gold or porcelain restorations can exceed 20 years.
It’s not the longest-lasting material out there. However, composite fillings provide an excellent balance between dental restoration durability, cost, and aesthetics.
Factors That Affect How Long Your Fillings Last
How long do composite resin fillings last? The following things affect these fillings’ lifespan:
Filling Location and Size
Molars and premolar teeth take on much more chewing stress. You can expect wear and tear to be much worse for fillings in back teeth than those up front. Larger fillings that cover more surface area also deteriorate sooner.
Oral Hygiene Practices
Strong dental health practices that help prevent decay around fillings include brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using quality mouthwash daily. Conversely, poor dental hygiene will weaken the bond between filling and tooth.
Dietary Habits and Lifestyle
Chewing ice, pens, or hard foods can crack or chip fillings. Wear and tear also happens when sugary and acidic foods break down filling edges over time. If you grind your teeth in your sleep (bruxism), your dentist could recommend a night guard to protect both your teeth and the composite fillings.
Material Quality and Dentist’s Expertise
The quality of the composite resin and your dentist’s skill matter. High-quality materials and expert placement improve dental restoration durability by creating a strong bond.
Routine Dental Checkups
Seeing your dentist for routine dental checkups every six months promotes early detection of cracks, gaps, or wear. If your dentist can polish or repair small issues before they worsen, the filling may last longer.
How To Make Your Composite Fillings Last Longer
So, how long do composite resin fillings last with great care? Here are some ways to maximize this potential lifespan for your dental work:
- Daily, brush twice with fluoride-based toothpaste and floss once.
- Avoid crunching ice or hard objects.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks wherever possible.
- Wear a nightguard.
Keep up with routine dental checkups twice yearly, too.
Signs That Your Filling May Need Attention
Even with the best care, fillings eventually wear out. It’s time to replace yours if you notice these signs:
- More sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Pain or discomfort when chewing.
- Rough, chipped, or cracked surfaces.
- Discoloration or a feeling that the filling is loose.
- Food getting stuck around the filling.
On average, you’ll get five to 10 years, so why not maximize that time if you can?
Final Thoughts
How long do composite resin fillings last compared to other options? If you’d like to know more about materials, how a tooth filling feels, or dental care, why not contact Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., P.A.? Schedule our dental care in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, at (561) 624-2224.
