Dr. Nazila Bidabadi is the chief cosmetic dentist at Soft Touch Dentistry and a clinical instructor at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. If you’re near Brighton or Newton, Massachusetts, you can trust her to monitor the condition of your fillings and replace them when necessary.
How Long Do Fillings Last?
The average lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material used and your oral habits. Here’s what you can expect:
- Amalgam fillings (metal-based): Typically last 10 to 15 years
- Composite fillings (tooth-colored): Usually last 5 to 10 years
- Ceramic or porcelain fillings: Can last up to 15 years
- Gold fillings: May last 15 to 30 years (this material is used less commonly today)
These timelines are general estimates. Things like grinding your teeth, how your bite lines up, and how well you care for your teeth can all affect how long a filling lasts.
Visiting Soft Touch Dentistry regularly gives us a chance to spot early signs of wear and take care of any issues.
Signs Your Fillings Might Need to Be Replaced
Pain when biting down or chewing is one indicator your filling has run its course, but sometimes it doesn’t necessarily hurt. Some of the other early indicators could include:
- Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Visible wear like rough edges, cracks, or a darkened area around the filling
- A filling that feels loose
- Decay around the edges of the existing filling
These signs may mean that bacteria have entered the space between the filling and the tooth, which can lead to further decay or even infection. A simple filling replacement can often prevent more complex dental work later on.
Schedule a Dental Exam in Brighton or Newton
It’s best not to wait to visit the dentist if you think one of your fillings might be worn out. Call Soft Touch Dentistry to schedule an exam with Dr. Bidabadi and her team in Massachusetts.
Brighton Office: 617-782-9250
Newton Office: 617-332-8146