Dental fillings are the most common type of tooth restoration. A dental filling is made of composite resin that closely resembles tooth enamel and can be matched to the shade of surrounding teeth.
While there’s no simple answer to how long a filling “should” last, 5-7 years is typical with proper care.
What Are Dental Fillings Made Of?
Dental fillings can consist of various materials, each with its advantages. Commonly-used materials include:
- Amalgam – a combination of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury; durable, long-lasting, and inexpensive
- Composite resin – a mixture of plastic and glass materials; less durable than amalgam but popular in cosmetic dentistry because it makes for a tooth-colored mixture
- Porcelain – pricier than other types of fillings but extremely durable, long-lasting, and tooth-colored
The filling material used generally depends on the size, location, and severity of a cavity, as well as a patient's preferences and budget. Your dentist can help you choose the right filling for your needs.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Foothill Ranch, CA
If you’re looking for a Foothill Ranch dentist near you who specializes in dental fillings and cosmetic dentistry, contact dentist Dr. Roy Kim and the team at Healthy Living Dentistry to schedule a consultation appointment!