The Truth About Fillings: They Don’t Last Forever
You probably don’t spend much time thinking about your dental fillings until one starts causing discomfort. But just like tires wear down, roofs need replacing, and phones eventually need an upgrade, fillings have a limited lifespan.
While fillings are strong and long-lasting, they endure daily pressure from chewing, temperature changes, and natural wear. Over time, they can crack, loosen, or simply wear down, leaving your tooth vulnerable to decay. Catching these issues early can help prevent pain, sensitivity, and more extensive dental work.
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, here’s what you need to know about when to replace a filling and how composite fillings offer a natural-looking, durable solution.
How Long Do Fillings Last?
The lifespan of a filling depends on its material, the location in your mouth, and your daily habits. At Caring Dental of Spotswood in Spotswood, NJ, we use tooth-colored composite fillings for durability and aesthetics.
- Composite fillings last 5 to 7 years, sometimes longer with excellent care.
- Amalgam (silver) fillings last 10 to 15 years but are more noticeable and require more natural tooth removal.
Even with good oral hygiene, no filling lasts forever. That’s why routine checkups are essential—your dentist can spot small cracks, wear, or loosening before they lead to bigger problems.
Signs You May Need to Replace a Dental Filling
You might not notice a failing filling right away, but here are some red flags warning you that it’s time for a replacement:
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
- Pain or pressure when biting down
- Visible wear, chipping, or discoloration
- Food getting stuck around the filling
- A rough or uneven feeling
Composite vs. Metal Fillings: What’s the Difference?
If you need a filling replaced, you may wonder about your options. Should you stick with the filling material you already have or switch to a composite filling?
At Caring Dental of Spotswood, we recommend composite (tooth-colored) fillings for their durability, strength, and natural look. Here’s how they compare to amalgam (silver) fillings:
- Appearance: Composite fillings match the color of your natural teeth, while silver fillings are more noticeable.
- Tooth Preservation: Composite fillings require less drilling, allowing us to keep more of the healthy tooth structure intact.
- Bonding Strength: Composite material bonds directly to the tooth for a secure, reinforced hold, while amalgam fillings do not.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Metal fillings expand and contract with hot and cold foods, which can cause cracks over time. Composite fillings remain stable.
- Durability: Amalgam fillings last longer, but modern composite materials have improved significantly, offering added strength and longevity.
If you still have old metal fillings, replacing them with composite fillings can improve the health and appearance of your smile.
Is it Time for Your Next Dental Exam?
A failing filling won’t fix itself—and waiting too long can turn a minor issue into a bigger, more expensive dental problem. Regular exams are the best way to keep your teeth strong and healthy, as we can assess your fillings and replace them if needed.
If you’ve noticed sensitivity, discomfort, or rough edges on a filled tooth, don’t ignore it. Contact our dental office located in Spotswood, NJ to schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure your filling is still doing its job—so you can keep smiling with confidence!
