{"id":254,"date":"2021-11-18T10:49:00","date_gmt":"2021-11-18T10:49:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jerseydentist.com\/blog\/?p=254"},"modified":"2022-08-03T22:50:00","modified_gmt":"2022-08-03T22:50:00","slug":"just-how-long-do-dental-fillings-last","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jerseydentist.com\/blog\/just-how-long-do-dental-fillings-last\/","title":{"rendered":"Just How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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There\u2019s a good chance you\u2019ve had to get a dental filling<\/a> in the past. After all, the CDC has found that 90% of Americans over age 20 have at least one cavity. Assuming that applies to you, your dentist likely filled the affected tooth. But have you wondered, \u201cHow long do fillings last?\u201d The treatments don\u2019t last forever, so it\u2019s essential to know when they need to be re-examined. Well, your local dentist is here with the answer. Read on to learn how long fillings should last, when you should replace them, and how best to care for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

So, How Long *Should* Dental Fillings Last?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Fillings typically last around ten years or so, though it can depend on the type you have. Both amalgam and ceramic ones can work for fifteen years, while those made of gold do so for twenty years or more. On the other hand, composite fillings that match tooth color usually last about seven years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When Do You Replace Them?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll need to replace a filling when it can no longer protect your tooth from decay. In most cases, that’s when it cracks, wears down from use, or falls out of your mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your dentist should be able to spot any treatment problems during a routine checkup. Using an explorer tool, they can see whether the filling is still sealed to the tooth. They may also take dental X-rays to see if there\u2019s decay under the filling or anywhere nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A sore or sensitive tooth may also show it\u2019s time for a replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Do You Care for Them?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll need to care for your fillings well, or they won\u2019t last their whole lifespan. That being the case, follow the tips below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n