At Dental Arts of New Orleans, we understand that dental fillings are a common part of maintaining oral health—according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 90% of Americans have one or more. If you ever need to fill cavities, our family dentist in New Orleans may recommend composite fillings for a natural-looking, durable solution.
Initially introduced in the 1960s, composite fillings have become increasingly popular due to their many benefits for dental patients. They look natural, form tight bonds with teeth, and result in less sensitivity than other options. You may also like what you hear when you ask, “How long do composite fillings last?”
So, how long can composite fillings last after being used to fill cavities? Find out below.
Determining the Lifespan of Composite Fillings
Generally speaking, the answer to the question, how long do composite fillings last, is about five to 10 years. However, some might last for 15 years or more.
Many factors will ultimately help determine how long you can enjoy the advantages of composite fillings. Let’s look at several of them.
The Size of Your Composite Fillings
You might guess larger composite fillings would last longer than smaller ones, but the opposite is true. You will likely find that larger ones must be replaced more often.
Why? Larger ones have been shown to wear down much quicker. If you know a filling will be on the bigger side, you may want to ask your dentist about other cavity treatment options.
Where They Are Located in Your Mouth
Location is another crucial factor to consider when asking, how long do composite fillings last? If you plan to put them on teeth that will routinely put chewing pressure on fillings, this could lead to them wearing down quicker than you might expect.
You can try to avoid this by:
- Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth
- Biting down slower and lighter than usual
- Steering clear of eating foods that are too chewy, sticky, or hard
However, if you have any toward the back of your mouth, they may not take long to begin wearing down.
Your Oral Hygiene Habits
No matter which types of dental fillings you have in your mouth, practicing good oral hygiene should make them last significantly longer. Brushing and flossing every day and scheduling regular dental checkups are just a couple of the steps you can take to promote better oral health.
You might also ask your dentist to offer some composite filling care tips. They can provide practical advice on how to keep them around for the long run.
The Foods and Drinks You Consume
Regardless of how hard you work to practice good oral hygiene, you may undo a lot of that effort with an unhealthy diet. If your diet consists of too many acidic foods and sugary drinks, you will not like the answer you get when you ask, how long do composite fillings last?
These foods and drinks may weaken your teeth. They might also take aim at your fillings, causing them to wear down quickly.
Your Lifestyle
Have you developed certain bad habits, like grinding or clenching your teeth? You might do these things so often that you don’t even realize it anymore, but that doesn’t mean they won’t still take a major toll on your teeth.
Grinding or clenching your teeth will put unnecessary pressure on composite fillings, leading to premature wear and tear.
Contact Us To Learn More About Composite Fillings and Other Dental Restoration Materials
Unfortunately, there isn’t a quick and easy answer to the question, “How long do composite fillings last?” Some people might only get five years, if that, out of them, while others will enjoy them for 15 years and sometimes longer with the proper care.
Dental Arts of New Orleans can offer additional insights into their lifespan. We can also explain the connection between good oral hygiene and long-lasting fillings.Reach out to us today at (504) 394-5330 to schedule an appointment.
