Under normal circumstances, cosmetic fillings can last up to ten years. Although they may need to be replaced after this period of time, the replacement may only need to be performed tooth by tooth rather than a complete replacement assembly. The biggest threat to oral health is tooth decay, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that at least 92% of adults have had at least one tooth in a permanent tooth. If you are among the people who have had a tooth decay, a filling was probably used to treat it.
This provides an effective, long-term solution to save your smile, but do fillings need to be replaced? Here's what you need to know to make sure your teeth stay strong and healthy. Most dental materials weren't designed to serve for the time we now expect to live. Some materials can last for many years, and others considerably less. The better the original dental material and the operator's skills, the longer the restoration lasts.
Lab-processed “indirect” materials will generally outlast direct placement materials. There really is no such thing as a permanent filler. Everything has a life expectancy, even dental filling materials. Each dental material appears to have two different types of lifespan: a functional lifespan (the amount of time a material will last before it stops working properly) and an aesthetic lifespan (the material, while possibly still able to function, has begun to degrade).
One of the questions that patients often ask when they need a dental filling is: “How long will it last?” Unfortunately, dental fillings are not permanent. Filling a cavity is sometimes inconvenient, so patients want to know when they will need to undergo the procedure again. Certain factors, such as the size of the cavity and the extent of wear, can affect the life of a filling, but the most important factor is the material used for the dental filling. When someone wants to improve the appearance of their smile, a cosmetic dentist can recommend one of several treatment options.
However, it is important to understand that these treatments are not permanent and may need to be replaced over time. The longevity of a cosmetic filling depends on several factors such as the type of material used for the filling, how well it was placed by your dentist, and how well you take care of your teeth. Generally speaking, composite fillings can last up to 10 years while amalgam fillings can last up to 15 years. However, these numbers are just estimates and may vary depending on your individual situation.
It is important to keep in mind that even if your cosmetic filling lasts for many years, it may still need to be replaced due to wear and tear or if it becomes loose or cracked. Regular check-ups with your dentist are essential in order to ensure that your fillings are in good condition and that any potential problems are caught early on. If you have any questions about how long your cosmetic filling will last or if you need a new one, contact your cosmetic dentist today for more information.