How long do dental fillings last?

You may be planning to get a dental filling or might already have one on a tooth, but the first question that pops up in your mind is “how long will this filling last?” There is no right or wrong answer to this question as  myriad factors influence the longevity of a dental filling. Below are a few which you need to know –

1. Technique sensitivity –The outcome of dental fillings is largely dependent on the technique used by the dentist while placing them on the teeth. Different filling materials have different protocols which have to be followed precisely to achieve the best results. Generally tooth-colored filling or composites are very technique sensitive, where a minor infraction can weaken the filling and decrease its lifespan.

2. Oral hygiene – Another important factor that could lead to an early failure of fillings is poor oral hygiene. Insufficient brushing and infrequent flossing will result in accumulation of plaque and debris around the fillings. Deposition of plaque will gradually weaken the margins and create microscopic cracks in the filling material. Due to this, germs can leak into the restoration and decay the tooth surface around and under the filling. The filling will eventually fracture or crack.

3. Para-functional habits – These are destructive habits which occur either voluntarily or involuntarily. Common para-functional habits of the mouth include bruxism (teeth grinding), clenching and doodling. Prolonged, repetitive, forceful contact of teeth with abnormal movement of the jaws will lead to wear and tear of the fillings as greater-than-normal forces will be acting on the restoration. It is essential that underlying problems causing these habits are dealt with to minimize adverse outcomes on the dental structures.

4. Unhealthy diet – Frequent consumption of starchy food and aerated drinks like cola will have detrimental effects on your tooth filling. The acidity in the mouth will increase to above-normal levels,   which will eventually corrode the fillings and the surrounding tooth structure. Thus, you will not only lose your dental filling but also the healthy parts of the tooth. To know more about the diet which is best for your teeth, read our blog here.

5. Faulty case selection – Not all decayed cavities can be restored with dental fillings. Large and extensive decayed surfaces of the tooth will generally have less tooth material enveloping them. If fillings are placed in such a situation, they will fracture due to insufficient support provided by the inadequate tooth material. In such situations dental crowns are used as an alternative to dental fillings for covering these decayed areas.

Families from Cromwell find the easy drive to Newington well worthwhile because or our expertise and modern facilities, our friendly dental team and the relaxing disposition of Dr. Mukund. If you like to know more about dental fillings, contact Green Meadow Dental, 3579 B Berlin Turnpike, Newington CT 06111, (860)-865-0056. We also serve  patients from neighbouring areas like Farmington, Plainville and East Berlin.