This answer varies greatly from patient to patient and largely depends on home care, diet, and other factors. But a composite resin tooth-colored filling generally lasts 7- 15 years.
The good news is that caring for tooth-colored fillings is simple and doesn't differ much from how you should care for your natural teeth.
Caring for Tooth-Colored Fillings in Durham, NC
Here are some tips on how to protect and make the most of your composite restorations:
- Consistent daily brushing and flossing — Brushing twice per day and flossing once helps protect your teeth from decay and cavities.
- Limit tooth-staining foods and beverages — Composite can discolor over time. Watch out for black coffee and tea, red wine, curries, soy sauce, and marinara sauce.
- Avoid biting directly into hard foods — Cut hard bread, apples, or carrots into bite-sized pieces to protect your teeth and restorations from damage.
- Don't use your teeth as tools — Teeth are for eating, not opening or carrying things.
- Wear a protective nightguard — If you clench or grind your teeth at night (bruxism), wearing a nightguard can protect them from damage.
Talk with Our Team
Contact The Smile Shop at (919) 941-5549 for more information if you have questions about tooth-colored fillings.