How Long Dental Fillings Last

Our dental team helps many patients treat cavities.

As much as we work with patients to help prevent them, cavities are a common oral health issue.

The good news is that with early intervention and treatment, we can often resolve tooth decay and preserve your tooth. To treat cavities as well as tooth chips and cracks, we use dental fillings.

But how long will a tooth filling last?

Are fillings a long-term option for improving oral health?

Keep reading to find out how long tooth fillings last.

Dental Filling Lifespan

The lifespan of a dental filling varies depending on the material used. Dentists often used gold or silver for their durability, but now there are more natural-looking solutions as well.

Generally, dental fillings can last for many years, often more than 10. Here’s a closer look based on the material:

Gold: Lasting for 15-30 years, gold fillings are the longest-lasting option.
Silver: silver amalgam tooth fillings are also durable, lasting up to 15 years.
Ceramic: Ceramic fillings are more natural looking and can last over 15 years. However, they are more expensive than gold fillings.
Resin: While composite fillings can blend in well with natural teeth, they have a shorter lifespan of only 5-7 years.

Tips for Helping Dental Fillings Last Longer

The answer to “how long does a tooth filling last?” varies depending on the material. However, other factors also influence the durability of the filling. There are several steps you can take to help dental fillings last as long as possible.

Brush your teeth twice daily and floss every day to remove plaque and food particles.
Use a sports mouth guard to protect your teeth and fillings during high-impact activities.
Wear a night mouthguard to shield your teeth and fillings from the effects of bruxism.
Visit the dentist regularly for a teeth cleaning and exam.

Tooth Fillings in Calgary, AB

If you think you may benefit from a tooth filling, turn to our general dentists at Dr. Brent MacDonald. We provide dental fillings as well as advice for taking the best care of them possible. Come in for an appointment where we can examine your smile and determine if a filling is right for you.

Schedule your appointment for a tooth filling in Calgary today!