Fillings

[TimG]

How long do they typically last?

I have a few that are probably 15-20 years old. i think they're the black amalgam that was used back then.

[Sharpie]

I know a great person that could answer this for you.. A dentist.

[TimG]

GREAT POST!

[2UTH DR]

Originally posted by TimG
How long do they typically last?

I have a few that are probably 15-20 years old. i think they're the black amalgam that was used back then.

Its really impossible to predict how long a restoration will last whether amalgam (silver) or composite resin (white). That's why dentists don't give warrantys/

There are too many uncontrollable factors to consider and these are a few:
1) patient's oral hygiene
2) patient's cavity risk
3) patients habits such as teeth grinding


Ive seen fillings at least 80 + years old. Ive seen fillings last 6 months.

The most common reasons why i replace fillings are because
1) another part of the tooth cracks or fractures off
2) a filling starts to leak and a cavity starts at the filling-tooth junction
3) a seperate cavity starts in another part of the tooth.

By the way, I still use the silver amalgam fillings. They are still an accepatble filling material.