When having a filling placed, it is important to have your questions answered about "How long do fillings last?" Selecting the filling material that works best for you should involve consideration regarding the appearance, durability, longevity and cost of that particular solution. With that in mind, there are several factors that work together to determine the longevity of a filling.
Type of material
There are several types of fillings, including:
#1. Tooth-colored resin
These look the most natural and blend in with the surrounding teeth but may need to be replaced every seven to 10 years. However, with proper care, some people have kept resin fillings far longer.
#2. Silver/amalgam
The average silver filling lasts for around 15 years. These fillings are common but they are also the most likely to stand out in the mouth since the silver color looks nothing like natural teeth.
#3. Gold
These fillings are the most expensive but can also last the longest, up to 30 years. In many cases, gold fillings will last at least 15 years.
Daily routine
A person’s daily routine will influence how long last. It is necessary to care for the teeth and gums, even teeth that have a dental filling. Brushing and flossing twice per day is an important step in that process. It is also necessary to eat and drink foods that are good for the teeth and not likely to cause erosion or damage. People need to avoid soda, acidic and processed foods. Also, biting down on something too hard can damage a filling, just like a natural tooth.