How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

Advances in dentistry techniques have brought the use of porcelain filings. This type of filling is unnoticeable and can be colored to match the natural shade of your other teeth so that it blends perfectly. These fillings will not last forever, so it is important that you receive regular dental care so that your dentist can check the filling to see if it needs to be replaced.

• The average porcelain filling will last between five and ten years as long as you take proper care of your teeth. This can vary depending on the placement of the filling. Advances in dentistry techniques may increase the time span that a filing can last; for now it is no more than ten years.

• You can choose silver fillings if you wish. Many patients choose this type of filling for back teeth due to the longevity of the material used. Silver fillings are not used as often due to the controversial nature of the mercury that is contained in the filling. Mercury can be toxic in large doses; however, no research has proven that silver fillings are dangerous to your health. Silver fillings generally last for ten to fifteen years.

• Silver fillings are less likely to become infected due to the antibacterial nature of the silver material. Porcelain does not contain the same antibacterial properties as silver does and therefore can form an infection in the tooth that is filled.

• Many insurance companies will not cover porcelain fillings for back teeth due to the fact that they are more expensive than the alternative silver fillings. For this reason, insurance companies will usually suggest that you use porcelain fillings for front teeth that are able to be seen when you smile. If your affected tooth is in the back of your mouth the insurance may only pay for a silver filling.