How Long do Fillings And Crowns Last?
People are commonly concerned about longevity when considering dental restoration options and ask the following questions. Will this treatment last a long time? How long until it will need repair or replacement?
Dental fillings are used to treat decayed or damaged teeth. They’re applied to the tooth surface to keep debris out, stop decay from progressing, and strengthen teeth.
Crowns are also common dental restorations. They enclose the tooth, cover it, and restore its form and function.
Let’s talk more about the average lifespan of dental fillings and crowns and the factors that can affect their longevity.
Dental fillings
Dental fillings can last an average of 10 years depending on your diet, dental care habits, oral health status, and other medical conditions. Tooth trauma, including clenching and grinding, can damage the fillings.
Amalgam and composite resin are the most common filling materials, but other options are also available. Your dentist in Winnipeg, Manitoba, recommends the most suitable for your case.
Amalgam, also referred to as silver fillings, contains a mixture of metals and particles, including mercury. It’s durable, and it’s also the least expensive filling material. Some are concerned about the mercury content of amalgam fillings, but dental authorities back its safety and efficacy.
Composite fillings are a popular filling material as they result in natural-looking restorations. They can also last for 10 years and even more with good dental health. We usually recommend composite resin fillings as they require minimal tooth preparation and can be colour-matched to your natural teeth.
Gold fillings are more expensive than other materials, but they’re also more durable. They can last for 20 years or more, but the downside is they’re easily visible.
Ceramics are the least common and costliest option, but they can last up to 15 years.
Dental fillings can chip and fall out, but they can be repaired or replaced. Broken fillings need to be fixed immediately to close gaps and keep harmful bacteria from penetrating.
However, if the cavity becomes too large, fillings may no longer be a viable option. There should be enough natural tooth structure to hold them.
Dental crowns
Dental crowns may be necessary if the damage is too large for fillings to cover. Your dentist may also recommend them after getting a root canal. Crowns can last for an average of 10 years or more with proper care.
Zirconia is a strong, non-metallic crown material. It’s crack-resistant and can endure heavy chewing forces. Zirconia crowns can last for up to 15 years.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns is another durable crown type. Their advantage is their natural-looking appearance, making them ideal for front teeth applications.
Gold crowns last for several decades with proper care. But, similar to gold fillings, their drawback is they're obvious.
Factors that affect dental filling and crown lifespan
Overall, the lifespan of dental fillings and crowns is similar. Here are the factors that can impact how long they last:
- Material. You and your dentist decide on the type of material based on your situation.
- Location. Fillings and crowns on molars or chewing surfaces endure heavier forces, so they’re also likely to wear faster.
- Dental care. Poor oral hygiene can weaken natural teeth and affect fillings and crowns.
- Pre-existing natural tooth.Dental restorations need support from natural tooth structures. If the natural teeth are severely decayed, fillings won’t be able to hold up for too long.
- Diet.A diet high in sugar and starch is prone to plaque and tartar buildup that can weaken the tooth restorations.
At Aqua Dental Wellness, we discuss every possible option for fillings and crowns to help you decide. There’s no single answer as to how long they last, but we‘re here to help you care for your dental work and get the most wear out of it.
If you’re thinking of getting a dental restoration in Winnipeg, Manitoba, contact us at