Close-up of dental model and tools used during a tooth filling replacement demonstration.

Dental fillings are essential for treating cavities and preserving tooth structure—but they don’t last forever. Over time, fillings can wear down, crack, or even fall out, leaving your teeth vulnerable to further decay or damage. So how do you know when it’s time to replace dental fillings? In this blog, we’ll cover the lifespan of different types of fillings, warning signs to watch for, and how your dentist determines when a replacement is necessary.

TLDR Quick Guide

 

How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used, your oral hygiene, and bite pressure.

Filling Material Average Lifespan
Composite (Tooth-colored) 5–10 years
Amalgam (Silver) 10–15 years
Gold 15+ years
Ceramic or Porcelain 10–20 years

Even the most durable fillings eventually break down due to chewing pressure, temperature changes, and time.

Top Signs It’s Time to Replace Dental Fillings

1. Tooth Sensitivity

Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods may signal a filling has worn down or separated from the tooth.

2. Pain or Discomfort

Persistent discomfort when biting or chewing can indicate:

3. Visible Damage

If you can see:

4. Staining or Discoloration

Composite fillings may darken or stain over time, especially with coffee, tea, or tobacco use.

5. Recurrent Decay

Decay can form underneath an old filling. Your dentist may detect this on X-rays or during a physical exam.

Why Replacing Old Fillings Matters

Delaying replacement of a damaged filling can lead to:

Early replacement helps avoid more invasive (and expensive) treatments later.

What Happens During a Filling Replacement?

  1. Your dentist examines the filling and takes an X-ray if needed 
  2. The old filling is removed, and decay (if any) is cleaned out 
  3. A new filling is placed—usually matched to the tooth’s color 
  4. The bite is checked and adjusted for comfort 

The entire process is typically completed in a single visit.

How to Extend the Life of Your Fillings

Key Takeaways

FAQs

Can I wait to replace a damaged filling if I’m not in pain?
Not recommended. Even without pain, gaps or cracks can let in bacteria and lead to decay or infection.

Is replacing a filling painful?
No. The area is numbed during the procedure, and most patients report little to no discomfort.

Can I replace silver fillings with tooth-colored ones?
Yes. Many patients choose to upgrade for aesthetic reasons or to remove mercury-based amalgam.

How do dentists check if a filling needs replacing?
They use physical inspection, bite testing, and X-rays to assess wear, cracks, or leakage.

How much does it cost to replace a filling?
Costs vary by material and tooth location, but dental insurance often covers part or all of the procedure.