If you’re like the majority of Americans, chances are you’ve needed to have a cavity filled at least once in your life, and that’s ok. There are several options for filling a cavity, and they’re all successful at helping to keep your teeth healthy. But while all types of fillings are super strong and can withstand a lot, unfortunately, they don’t last forever. At my dental office in Buckhead, we know the anticipated lifespan of a filling depends on what it’s made out of, so let’s look at the most popular filling available, the tooth-colored filling.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Fillings designed to match the color of your natural teeth are appropriately known as tooth-colored fillings or composite fillings. On average, a composite filling can stay durable for anywhere between 7 to 10 years —sometimes less, sometimes more — depending on your oral hygiene habits. While these restorations typically don’t last as long as silver fillings, there are quite a few benefits behind this better-camouflaged option including no silvery smile, more of your healthy tooth can be saved during treatment, and enhanced strength since the material chemically bonds to the tooth surface. As with anything, there are a few negatives to consider.

Cons

• Composite fillings may cost a bit more than silver fillings
• The appointment may make take a few minutes longer
• Composite fillings are technique sensitive and cannot be completed in areas where it would be impossible to keep a dry field free from saliva

If you’re in need of a dentist, or believe you may have a cavity, give my Buckhead dental office a call. We’ll be happy to perform an in-depth exam and diagnose exactly what’s going on in your mouth, if anything. And if we find a cavity, we’ll discuss which filling is most appropriate for you. Schedule your appointment today!

Serving patients from Buckhead, Atlanta, and Sandy Springs.