Here’s something most people don’t realize: that filling you got five years ago won’t last forever. But before you panic, there’s plenty you can do to make your fillings go the distance.
Understanding how long different materials last and what makes them fail can save you time, money, and unnecessary dental visits. Most fillings give you anywhere from five to fifteen years, though some can keep going for decades.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about making your fillings last.
What Are Dental Fillings?
A filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay. Your dentist removes the decayed part and fills the space with durable material. This stops bacteria from getting in, prevents the cavity from growing, and restores normal tooth function. Without treatment, cavities keep getting bigger and can lead to pain, infection, or tooth loss.
Why Filling Lifespan Matters
Tooth fillings will wear out with time. This occurs from the normal pressures of chewing, exposure to varying temperatures, and everyday usage. Understanding these activities will help you select the most appropriate filling material and preventative maintenance to avoid filling-related complications.
Types of Dental Filling Materials and How Long They Last
Different materials have different lifespans. Here’s what to expect from each type used in Australia.
Filling Type Comparison:
| Filling Type | Average Lifespan | Annual Failure Rate | Best For |
| Gold | 15-20+ years | <1% | Molars, maximum durability |
| Amalgam (Silver) | 10-15 years | 2-3% | Back teeth, heavy chewing |
| Ceramic/Porcelain | 10-20 years | 1-2% | Visible teeth, aesthetics |
| Composite Resin | 5-10 years | 2.8% | Front teeth, natural look |
| Glass Ionomer | 3-7 years | 4-5% | Small cavities, children |
Amalgam (Silver Fillings)
Average lifespan: 10-15 years
Made from metals including silver, tin, copper, and mercury, amalgam handles heavy chewing pressure well. Studies show they last longer than composite materials. They’re silver in colour but many last well over 15 years with good care. Ideal for back molars.
Composite (Tooth-Coloured Fillings)
Average lifespan: 5-10 years
Composite resin, or tooth-coloured fillings match your natural tooth color and bonds directly to enamel. Research shows an 87% five-year survival rate with a 2.8% annual failure rate. Modern composites are much stronger than older versions and look completely natural. They are supposed to be perfect fillings for visible teeth where appearance matters.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Average lifespan: 3-7 years
These release fluoride, which helps protect against further decay. They’re used for small cavities or children’s teeth and temporary repairs. Not as strong as other materials, so they’re not suitable for molars.
Ceramic or porcelain fillings.
Average Lifespan: 10-20 Years.
These fillings are sturdy, custom-made, good at matching your natural teeth, and are stain-resistant. Because of these benefits, many customers find them worth the cost.
Gold Fillings
Average lifespan: 15-20+ years
Gold fillings handle chewing forces better than almost any other material and are well-tolerated by gum tissue. They can last 30 years or more but are less common now due to their colour and higher cost.
What Affects How Long a Filling Lasts
Quality fillings will wear down eventually. Oral hygiene and good maintenance will keep the cavities at the edge of the filling away.
Size and Location.
The back filling teeth are larger and work harder to wear the fillings, and molar teeth can withstand normal chewing of 90 kg of pressure. Also, larger fillings fail sooner due to less natural tooth support.
Lifestyle Factors
Studies conducted in the recent past indicate that smoking and drinking alcohol poorly affect the health of dental fillings. It has been noted that alcohol consumption increases the chances of failure exponentially within a span of two years, and smoking aggravates the situation for men. Sugary and acidic drinks or foods contribute to the erosion of the enamel and fillings, as well. Soft drinks, fruit juices, and wine are highly problematic.
Bruxism
Teeth grinding is among the worst and most damaging habits for fillings, particularly during the night. The amount of pressure exerted is far greater than what is exerted during normal chewing, and this happens repeatedly for several hours. As a result, the materials become worn, the fillings develop micro-cracks and ultimately, the failure occurs. If you suffer from bruxism, a custom night guard is critical.
Quality of Dental Work
The placement technique used for your filling has a genuine impact, and the outcome can vary. Proper isolation of the tooth upon filling has the impact of keeping your filling adhered well, and your bite remains balanced.
Age and Natural Wear
There is a gradual and natural shifting as well as wearing of the teeth in the aging process. This can result in gaps around the older fillings, and bacteria can infiltrate within. The slight flexing and chewing of your teeth can ultimately result in minute separations, contributing to aging.
Signs Your Filling Might Need Replacement
Signs to note:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. This means a gap has developed.
- Pain when biting or chewing. This means the filling is loose or cracked.
- Visible cracks or dark lines indicate the bacteria are getting in.
- Rough or uneven edges, as the material is wearing down.
- Food is caught in the same spot. This means the filling has pulled away.
Contact your dentist as soon as possible when you see any of these. It is better to catch problems early, as that prevents further damage.
What Happens When a Filling Wears Out
When a filling fails, bacteria can reach the tooth underneath and cause new decay. Your dentist might recommend:
- Replacing the filling when the tooth is still strong.
- Inlays or onlays are stronger ceramic restorations for larger areas.
- A crown is placed when the tooth has been significantly weakened.
Sorting it early saves your tooth and keeps the treatment less complicated.
How to Make Your Fillings Last Longer
With good habits, fillings will last longer than expected; otherwise, the average.
- Brush your teeth twice a day with the right toothpaste , which helps protect the enamel around your fillings.
- Floss daily: it prevents bacteria from accumulating around the edges of your fillings.
- Do not chew on hard objects like ice, your fingernails, or even pens, and do not use your teeth to open packages.
- Do not drink alcohol and limit sugary and acidic drinks: they wear down the materials used to fill your teeth.
- If you grind your teeth, use a night guard: it can increase the lifespan of your fillings by two or three times.
- Use a mouth guard during contact sports: it prevents damage to your fillings and teeth.
- Visit your dentist every 6 months so they can identify small issues that can lead to larger ones.
Affordable Filling Care
We understand that dental work can be pricey. That is why we accept all health funds and offer interest-free payment plans with Humm and Afterpay (starting at $40 per month). We bulk bill eligible children’s dental services and accept DVA and government vouchers.
Conclusion
Fillings can last anywhere from 5-15 years, depending on the material used and the care given. Receiving regular care and good daily practices, most Australians are able to enjoy their fillings for multiple decades.
We ensure your fillings remain durable and long-lasting by utilising high-grade materials and meticulous placement techniques. We’re always here to help if your last check-up was a long time ago or if you think a filling needs some care.
