How Long Do Tooth Fillings Last in Palm Beach Gardens?

If you’ve never gotten a filling for a cavity before, you may have questions about them. We’re going to answer some frequently asked questions such as “How long do tooth fillings last?” and “How do fillings work to repair teeth?”

Tooth fillings are used to repair damaged or cracked teeth. If you’re looking for a “dentist near me,” contact a dentist in Palm Beach Gardens to express your concerns and learn whether getting a tooth filling is the right solution. We’ll explain what tooth fillings are, the different types, how they work, and more, so you can be well-informed.

What are tooth fillings?

A tooth filling or dental filling is used to restore your teeth by filling in areas of damage or decay. It is a restorative dental treatment that fixes cavities and teeth with cracks or chips. Depending on the type of filling, the process typically includes:

• Numbing your tooth
• Removing any damaged or decayed tissue
• Filling the hole created with the chosen dental filling material
• Polishing and smoothing rough edges
• Checking your final bite and comfort

Nearly 90% of American adults aged between 20 and 64 have had at least one cavity, which typically requires a filling.¹

Types of tooth fillings

There are a few different types of tooth fillings, and your dentist can help determine which is best for your unique case.

Direct fillings

Direct fillings only take one appointment to complete. The dentist will place a direct filling in your mouth without the need for a dental lab or temporary restoration.

Some of the most common direct filling materials are:

• Resin composite
• Amalgam
• Glass ionomer

Indirect fillings

Indirect fillings are made in a dental laboratory before your dentist places them in your mouth. These types of fillings generally take two office visits: one for impressions and one for the actual placement. Dentists use inlays and onlays when a tooth has too much damage to support a filling but not enough for a dental crown.

The most common indirect filling materials are:

• Gold
• Porcelain

How do fillings work to repair teeth?

Think of tooth fillings like patching a hole in a wall. Fillings repair decaying, chipped, or cracked teeth by preventing the hole from spreading deeper and compromising the whole tooth. Fillings seal and support the structure and integrity of your teeth, protecting against further dental issues.

Benefits of tooth fillings

The main benefit of tooth fillings is that they reduce the risk of further damage to your teeth and treat existing tooth decay. Other benefits of fillings include:

• Preventing bacteria from spreading
• Alleviating pain and discomfort
• Preserving natural tooth structure
• Enhancing the appearance of your tooth
• Restoring normal tooth function
• Strengthening weakened teeth

What to expect after a tooth filling

After a tooth filling, your mouth may be numb for a couple of hours. This is normal. Avoid chewing on the side where the filling was placed until the numbness subsides to prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.

You may also experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure near the filling over the next few weeks, especially if it was placed near a nerve. Contact your dentist if the pain worsens or sensitivity lasts longer than a few weeks.

The key to maintaining your dental filling is a proper oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and attending dental exams will help extend the longevity of your filling.

How long do tooth fillings last?

Generally, tooth fillings can last around 10 years, depending on the materials used and other factors.² The other factors that influence how long your tooth filling lasts include:

• Eating habits
• Oral hygiene
• Grinding your teeth while sleeping (bruxism)
• Trauma to the tooth

The material of your filling is one of the best indicators of its potential lifespan. For instance, fillings made from glass ionomer may last five to seven years, while ceramic or amalgam fillings can last 15 years on average.

Need a filling? Call your dentist today

If you suspect you have a cavity or a minor chip or crack in your tooth, you may need a dental filling. Schedule an appointment with your dentist so they can evaluate the situation and find the best solution. Remember to focus on a solid oral hygiene routine to extend the lifespan of your tooth filling.