Written by Caroline Bonin
Medically Reviewed by Nandita Lilly
Dental fillings don’t last forever, but they can last for several decades.
Their lifespan depends on your oral hygiene, the filling size, the cavity's severity, and the filling material used. The four most common types of fillings are composite, porcelain, amalgam, and gold.
When using porcelain or gold as a filling material, they are referred to as inlays or onlays. These custom restorations are made in a laboratory before being cemented onto your tooth. On the other hand, composite and amalgam fillings are shaped and hardened into the cavity on the spot.
Proper care can extend the lifetime of your filling. Regular visits with your dentist will help you determine when you need to replace a filling.
Your dentist will help you choose the right filling material. Different materials will last different lengths of time, with most lasting a dece or more.
Lifetime: 7 to 10+ years
Composite resin is a popular material for fillings because it matches the natural color of your teeth. These fillings can last for about 7 to 10 years. Some dentists estimate they can last even longer with proper care.
Lifetime: Up to 15 years
Porcelain fillings are durable but expensive. They can last up to 15 years.
Lifetime: Up to 15 years
Glass ionomer fillings are typically used for cavities just below the gum line. They’re not strong enough to last in teeth used for chewing (molars).
An advantage of glass ionomers is that they release fluoride, which helps prevent future cavities. When placed correctly, they can last up to 15 years.
Lifetime: 10 to 15+ years
Silver amalgam fillings can last for 10 to 15 years or more.
Amalgam fillings are highly resistant to wear and tear, which is why they’ve been used for over 100 years.
However, FDA research has shown that amalgam dental fillings release low levels of mercury in vapor. It can be inhaled and absorbed by the lungs, which can cause adverse effects in certain people.
According to the FDA, the majority of evidence shows mercury exposure from amalgam does not lead to negative health effects in the general population. They do not recommend removing existing amalgam unless deemed medically necessary by a healthcare professional.
Lifetime: 10 to 30 years
Gold is the most durable filling material available. Gold fillings can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years.
However, gold is not used in dentistry as often today because it is expensive and doesn’t match the natural color of teeth.
Lifetime: 30 days
Temporary fillings are only meant to last about thirty days.
They’re a short-term solution until you can have another type of filling procedure or oral treatment done. They close the cavity and prevent further decay.
Maintaining fillings requires diligent oral hygiene practices.
Take care of your teeth and make your fillings last longer by following these tips:
Maintaining fillings requires diligent oral hygiene practices.
Take care of your teeth and make your fillings last longer by following these tips:
Dental fillings don’t last forever. You will know that your filling needs to be replaced if it falls out, cracks, or leaks.
Other signs that your filling needs to be replaced include:
You may not have any symptoms. However, your filling might still need to be replaced. You should see your dentist regularly to evaluate the health of your fillings.
If you don’t replace a broken filling, you may experience
You should see a dentist when your filling falls out or has sustained visible damage. You should consult them if you experience significant pain or sensitivity around your filling.
Visit your dentist at least twice a year for optimal upkeep of your filings.
Dental fillings can last anywhere from 7 to 30 years, depending on the material. The most common filling materials include composite resin, amalgam, and gold.
You can increase the lifespan of your fillings by practicing excellent oral hygiene. Avoiding sugary, sticky, or hard foods can positively impact your filling longevity.
When your filling needs to be replaced, it may fall out, crack, or fracture. Visit your dentist routinely to have the health of your fillings evaluated.
