If you have been told by your dentist that you will need a filling to prevent further decay in your tooth, one of the first questions that you might have is how long will it last. This is a very valid concern, however, the answer really depends on exactly what type of filling you get. A Denver cosmetic dentist will be able to go over all of your options with you.
Average Life Span
If the length of time is determined using averages of all common treatments, the filling should last about 10 years. This will boil down to not only the material used to create the filling but several other factors as well, such as dietary choices, hygiene techniques, as well as if you grind your teeth at night. An experienced physician such as Dr Tim Wachuta in Denver, Golden, and Wheat Ridge will look at your lifestyle and medical history and let you know what to expect.
Amalgam Fillings
These are also known as "silver fillings" although there are other forms of metal used in these fillings as well. They are manufactured using copper, elemental mercury, tin alloy, as well as the aforementioned silver. These have an average lifespan of 15 years but there have been reported cases of them lasting as long as 44 years. Certain segments of the population are advised against getting this type of filling, such as pregnant women and those who suffer from kidney problems.
Composite Fillings
These are especially popular amongst Denver cosmetic dentist patients because their color can be matched to the surrounding teeth. They are made from a blend of ceramic and acrylic resins. However, they only last on average around 7 years, meaning you will have to have them replaced more often.
Gold Fillings
While not exactly popular throughout the general population due to their cost, gold fillings are undeniably the longest-lasting option available. They can easily last for 20 years or longer.
Ceramic Fillings
Using ceramic for fillings is fairly rare, mainly due to their cost, which is even higher than that of their gold counterparts. However, just as with gold, ceramic can last a very long time before Dr Tim Wachuta needs to replace it.
Preventive Measures
There are several lifestyle changes that you can make to ensure that your dental fillings last as long as possible. Reducing or even eliminating sugar from your diet is a great place to start. However, even doing something as simple as brushing right after consuming sugary foods is of great help.
If you live in Denver, Wheat Ridge, or Golden and need a filling in one or more of your teeth, please contact the friendly staff at Gentle Smiles of Colorado. They can schedule an appointment and take care of your dental problems immediately.