Tooth-colored fillings offer a cosmetically appealing solution to treating tooth decay and restoring dental strength, health, and appearance. Like all dental restorations, tooth-colored fillings have a lifespan. As with all dental restorations, the lifespan of tooth-colored dental fillings largely depends on patient aftercare. General dentistry treatments can help keep your smile healthy and prolong the life of your tooth-colored fillings. Charleston area patients can prolong the lifespan of their tooth-colored fillings with these aftercare tips from cosmetic dentist John Rink.

How Long Do Tooth-colored Fillings Last?

Tooth-colored dental fillings are made of either composite resin or porcelain and are customized to match the surrounding tooth for a seamless look. Tooth-colored fillings are extremely durable and can last well over 10 years. Though tooth-colored fillings are durable, their lifespan can be shortened or lengthened depending on aftercare. Oral health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and dental fractures can develop if the teeth are not well cared for, even in teeth with tooth-colored fillings. Such issues require tooth-colored fillings to be replaced early. Practicing proper aftercare can help keep your tooth-colored fillings looking and functioning their best for years to come.

Aftercare Tips to Prolong the Life of Tooth-colored Fillings

Teeth treated with tooth-colored fillings don't require more care than healthy teeth. Properly caring for teeth treated with tooth-colored fillings includes following good oral hygiene habits. You can help prolong the life of your tooth-colored fillings, and keep your smile healthy, by following these aftercare tips.

• Brush two or more times a day: The teeth should be brushed at least twice a day to reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which is important to preventing decay in teeth treated with tooth-colored fillings. Brush the teeth for a full two minutes at each brushing, being sure to thoroughly brush the back teeth and along the gum line.
• Floss at least once a day: Flossing is just as important as brushing the teeth when it comes to maintaining oral health and prolonging the life of tooth-colored fillings. Flossing is vital for removing plaque along the gum line and between the teeth where brushing can't reach. To properly floss, sweep the floss up and down at least three times on each side of each tooth and as far along the gum line as possible.
• See your dentist regularly: Regular dental exams and cleanings are another important component to keeping the mouth healthy and tooth-colored fillings at their best. See your dentist at least once every six months.
• Rinse with water after meals, between brushing: Rinsing the mouth with water after meals and between brushings reduces the risk of tooth decay. Rinsing with water removes food remnants and bacteria from the teeth and neutralizes the acids within the mouth, all of which lowers the risk of tooth decay.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Rink

A healthy smile begins with practicing proper oral care at home, but also requires professional dental attention. Keep your smile healthy. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rink.