We’ve all been there – lying back in the dentist’s chair getting a cavity filled. But have you ever wondered just how long those fillings are meant to stick around? Dr Anish, a dentist from Newcastle, shares his expert insights.
“With proper care and maintenance, we hope dental fillings can last over 10 years,” says Dr Anish. “However, it can really vary from person to person based on their oral health habits.”
What Causes Fillings to Fail?
While relatively rare, fillings can occasionally break or fall out if you’re partial to super chewy lollies like Minties or munch on really hard foods frequently.
“More commonly though, fillings need replacement due to new decay developing around the existing filling site,” explains Dr Anish. “This can happen if oral hygiene slips or enough time passes and that area becomes prone to cavities again.”
The Tooth-Friendly Way to Make Them Last
So what’s the secret to long-lasting fillings? Dr Anish can’t stress good oral hygiene habits enough.
“Diligent brushing, daily flossing, drinking plenty of water and keeping up with regular professional cleans – this is the recipe for fillings that go the distance,” he says.
“It’s also crucial to avoid crunching on hard snacks or candies that can crack, dislodge or damage fillings. An ounce of prevention helps you steer clear of extra dental work down the road.”
If you have a feeling an existing filling may be failing, don’t put off getting it checked. Catching issues early makes the fix easier.
From fillings to crowns, our team at 7 Pearls Dental provides expert restorative care tailored to your needs. Book an appointment today and let’s get your smile back to pristine condition!