Most people think of dental fillings as permanent but like anything else, they don’t last forever. Over time, even the most well-placed fillings can begin to wear out, break down, or fail altogether. So how do you know when it’s time for a replacement?
At Lyons Creek Dental Care in Shoreline, we help patients identify when their restorations need attention and offer modern, comfortable solutions to keep their smiles healthy and strong. Here’s what you need to know about aging dental fillings and what signs to watch for.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
The lifespan of a dental filling depends on several factors:
- Material used (composite, amalgam, ceramic, etc.)
- Location and size of the filling
- Biting forces and teeth grinding
- Oral hygiene habits
- Diet and lifestyle (e.g., acidic or sugary foods)
On average:
- Composite (tooth-colored) fillings last about 5–10 years.
- Amalgam (silver) fillings may last 10–15 years or longer, but may fracture or corrode over time.
- Ceramic or porcelain fillings can last up to 15 years with proper care.
Even if your fillings aren’t causing issues now, regular dental checkups are essential to catch subtle signs of wear before they lead to bigger problems.
Signs It’s Time to Replace a Filling
Not sure whether your old filling is still doing its job? Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
1. Tooth Sensitivity
If you’re suddenly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods, your filling may be leaking or breaking down.
2. Pain or Discomfort
Sharp pain when chewing can indicate a cracked filling or even new decay around the old one.
3. Visible Damage or Wear
If you can see a dark spot, crack, or worn edge on the filling, it’s time to have it evaluated.
4. Rough or Uneven Texture
Your tongue is often the first to notice something feels “off.” A rough or uneven surface may mean the filling is deteriorating.
5. Discoloration Around the Filling
Dark stains or shadowing around a composite filling may signal decay underneath.
6. A Filling That’s Fallen Out
This is a clear sign you need a replacement, and quickly, to prevent bacteria from reaching deeper into the tooth.
Why Replace Fillings Sooner Rather Than Later?
Old or damaged fillings don’t just put your tooth at risk. They can also lead to more extensive (and expensive) dental treatments down the road, such as crowns, root canals, or even tooth loss.
At Lyons Creek Dental Care, we focus on early detection and conservative treatment. If we see signs that a filling is failing, we’ll discuss options to restore your tooth with the most durable and aesthetic solution available.
Modern Filling Options Available in Shoreline
We offer a variety of restorative materials, each chosen based on your tooth’s location, function, and aesthetic needs. These include:
- Tooth-colored composite fillings for natural-looking results
- Laser cavity treatment and air abrasion for a drill-free experience
- High-strength porcelain or ceramic fillings for long-lasting durability
Our goal is always to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, while ensuring comfort and long-term health.
Not Sure if Your Filling Needs Replacement?
That’s what we’re here for. At Lyons Creek Dental Care, we use high-resolution imaging and thorough diagnostics to assess your restorations and give you honest, personalized recommendations.
Whether it’s been a few years or a few decades since your last filling, we’ll help you stay ahead of problems and keep your smile strong.
Schedule Your Filling Checkup
If you’ve been wondering whether that old filling is still doing its job, let’s take a look together. Our Shoreline dental team is here to make your care comfortable, conservative, and fully customized to your needs.
