Getting a cavity filled is a common dental procedure that most people will undergo at some point in their lives. Fillings help repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, preventing further decay and restoring the tooth’s strength and function.
Fillings are not meant to last forever, however. Over time, fillings can become defective and need to be repaired or replaced. So how often should you plan on having your fillings redone?
Do fillings last forever?
No, dental fillings do not last forever. While the materials used for fillings are durable, they are not indestructible. The average lifespan of a filling can vary based on several factors:
- Type of filling material – Composite resin fillings typically last 7-10 years. Amalgam fillings can last 10-15 years.
- Location of the filling – Fillings placed in molars or areas with high biting pressure may wear out faster.
- Oral hygiene habits – Good brushing and flossing help fillings last longer.
- Eating and chewing habits – Crunchy, sticky, or hard foods can cause more wear on fillings.
- Grinding or bruxism – Nighttime teeth grinding puts extra stress on fillings.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, most fillings should last 5-10 years before needing repair or replacement. However, some may need attention sooner if they become defective.
How do I know when a filling needs to be replaced?
There are several signs that indicate a filling may need to be repaired or replaced:
- Tooth pain – If a filled tooth becomes sensitive or painful to hot, cold, or biting pressure, it could signal tooth decay under or around an old filling.
- Chips, cracks, or broken fillings – Minor cracks or fractures allow bacteria to seep in and cause decay.
- Worn edges – Over time, the edges of a filling can wear down, allowing gaps for bacteria.
- Discoloration – Dark or stained margins around a filling can indicate leakage.
- A loose filling – Fillings should fit tightly. One that wiggles could mean underlying tooth decay.
Even if there are no obvious symptoms, it is smart to have fillings evaluated during your regular dental exams. Your dentist can detect early signs of deterioration and repair or replace a filling before it leads to more extensive tooth damage or decay.
How are defective fillings repaired?
When a filling becomes defective but the tooth is otherwise healthy, a dentist may be able to repair it by:
- Removing any decayed tooth structure and reshaping the prepared cavity.
- Replacing any cracked sealant or bonding material around the filling.
- Refinishing and polishing the edges of the existing filling.
- Applying a new bonding agent and sealing the surface.
Repairing an old filling is often quicker, less expensive, and less invasive than replacing the entire filling. However, it depends on the condition of the existing filling and how much tooth structure remains.
When do fillings need to be replaced?
If an old filling can’t be repaired, your dentist will recommend completely replacing it. Reasons a filling may need replacement include:
- Extensive decay under or around the filling.
- Large fractures, cracks, or portions missing from the filling.
- Inadequate remaining tooth structure to properly bond and fill the cavity.
- Underlying infection or abscess related to the filling.
- An ill-fitting filling that leaves gaps allowing decay.
- An aesthetically displeasing metal filling you want replaced with a tooth-colored material.
Replacing a defective filling involves removing the old filling completely, cleaning out the cavity, and placing a new filling. If the tooth decay is extensive, other procedures like a dental crown may be recommended.
How long do replacement fillings last?
A replacement filling can potentially last as long as a new one, depending on your oral hygiene and habits. With proper care and regular dental cleanings, a replacement composite filling typically lasts 7-10 years, while an amalgam filling may last 10-15 years.
However, if decay was present around the old filling that weakened the tooth structure, the replacement filling may not last as long. Your dentist will advise you on the best filling material and projected lifespan based on your individual tooth needs.
Can a filling be replaced too many times?
It is possible for a tooth to be filled too many times. When a cavity is filled, some healthy tooth structure must be removed to make room for the filling. If decay continues to recur around an old filling, progressively more tooth structure gets removed with each replacement.
Eventually, there may not be enough healthy natural tooth left to properly retain a new filling. In these cases, more extensive treatment is needed to restore the damaged tooth, such as:
- Dental crown – A cap that covers and protects the entire tooth.
- Root canal – Removal of the pulp and placement of a crown.
- Dental implant – Replacement of the tooth with an artificial root and crown.
- Extraction – Removal of the damaged tooth.
To avoid excessive loss of tooth structure, be vigilant about cavities developing around existing fillings. Get them repaired or replaced promptly when recommended.
How often should I get my fillings checked?
The American Dental Association recommends having your fillings evaluated with a comprehensive dental exam every 6 months to 1 year. However, some people are more susceptible to fillings failing and may need to be checked more frequently. Key risk factors include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Frequent sugar consumption
- Dry mouth
- Teeth grinding
- Existing dental work
Make sure to tell your dentist about any defective fillings at your checkups. Early detection of failing fillings allows them to be fixed before more complex treatments are required.
Can getting fillings redone be avoided?
While most fillings will eventually need to be replaced, you can maximize their lifespan and avoid premature failures with good oral care:
- Brush and floss thoroughly twice a day – This removes decay-causing plaque from your teeth and around fillings.
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods and beverages – Sugar and acid create conditions that weaken enamel and cause cavities.
- Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash – Fluoride strengthens enamel and protects against decay.
- Get regular dental cleanings and exams – Professional cleanings remove harmful plaque buildup and allow early detection of any issues.
- Repair cracks or defects as soon as possible – Small cracks allow decay to spread under the filling and cause more damage if left untreated.
While following great oral hygiene habits is important, some people are still prone to frequent cavities for reasons like tooth anatomy, health conditions, or medications. Talk to your dentist about your individual risk.
Conclusion
Most dental fillings need to be repaired or replaced at some point in time. With proper oral care, fillings can last 5-15 years on average before needing attention. Seeing your dentist regularly allows defective fillings to be detected early and fixed before more extensive treatment is required. Be vigilant about tooth pain, cracks, discoloration, or other changes that could indicate a failing filling. Good communication with your dentist and prompt treatment when recommended helps avoid more complex procedures down the road.