Extending the Life of Your Fillings

Have you ever had a dental filling with Confluence Dental in Wenatchee, WA? An estimated 9 out of 10 people currently have a dental filling; that’s a lot of people! Unfortunately, many people think that once a filling is placed into a tooth, they never have to think about it for the rest of their lives. The fact of the matter is, fillings have a lifespan! Eventually, fillings will most likely need to be replaced. If you take good care of them, however, you can drastically extend the life of your dental fillings.

How Long Do Fillings Last?

Tooth-colored fillings and amalgam, or metal, fillings have similar lifespans in smaller fillings. The lifespan usually spans about ten years. When it comes to larger fillings, though, the amalgam fillings typically outlive tooth-colored fillings.

How Can I Keep My Fillings Healthy?

If you practice good oral hygiene and take some things into consideration, you can seriously keep your fillings in good health for a long time. If you want to keep your fillings for as long as possible, it’s best to follow these simple tips:

• Brush twice a day and floss at least once a day.

Brushing and flossing will ensure that your fillings are not eroded away by cavities.

• Visit your dentist every six months for routine checkups and exams.

If there is any problem with your teeth or fillings, your dentist will be able to find it early before it becomes a serious problem.

• Limit sugary and staining foods.

Sugary foods encourage cavity formation which can deteriorate the tooth enamel around your fillings.

• If you notice any tooth sensitivity around your filling, contact us right away!

If your tooth becomes sensitive, this may mean that a cavity is forming. A cavity that forms around an existing filling can be dangerous, so it’s important to take care of it right away!

If you have any more questions about dental fillings, give us a call or stop into our dental office near you today. You can also schedule your next appointment online with our convenient online booking form!