Most people will get a cavity at some point. When decay forms, your dentist removes the damaged area and seals the space with a filling to restore strength and comfort. At our San Jose dental practice, we emphasize preventive care and routine maintenance so small issues don’t turn into bigger problems. Still, fillings don’t last forever, and they eventually need to be replaced as part of ongoing preventive and restorative treatment.

How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

Longevity depends on the material, bite forces, cavity size, and most importantly, preventive care. Consistent brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings all help fillings last longer by protecting the surrounding tooth structure. Regular exams at our San Jose or Los Gatos dental office allow us to detect early signs of wear or decay and make small adjustments before major repairs are needed. Porcelain or ceramic inlays and onlays may offer added durability for larger restorations, but the best way to extend the life of any filling is through ongoing preventive dental care and timely maintenance.

When Does a Dentist Replace a Filling?

Age alone isn’t a reason to redo a filling. We recommend replacement when:

  • The filling falls out or loosens.
  • There’s a crack in the filling or the surrounding tooth.
  • We see recurrent decay at the edges (margins).
  • Ongoing temperature or bite sensitivity suggests leakage.
  • Normal wear has reduced protection and seal.

If a crack or cavity is too large for a new filling, a custom inlay, onlay, or a full dental crown can restore proper strength and function.

How To Extend Filling Life

Daily brushing and flossing, fluoridated toothpaste, and regular professional cleanings help preserve your fillings and surrounding enamel. Limit frequent acidic or sugary snacks and drinks, and avoid chewing ice or using your teeth as tools. If you grind or clench at night, a protective nightguard can significantly extend the lifespan of your restorations. These preventive steps support long-term oral health and minimize the need for future replacements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, sometimes fillings can loosen or fall out. Contact us right away so we can replace it quickly and protect your tooth from new decay.

There isn’t a strict limit, but repeated replacement enlarges the restored area. When a tooth has more filling than natural structure, a crown (or sometimes an inlay/onlay) becomes the more durable, preventive option to reduce future fractures and re-treatment.

Small cracks may be repaired with a filling, but larger fractures often need an inlay, onlay, or dental crown for complete protection.

Only when necessary. During your preventive visits, we evaluate the condition of your fillings and suggest replacement only if wear, decay, or damage is detected.

If a tooth has extensive damage or multiple old fillings, a crown is often the most reliable way to restore its structure and prevent future breakage.

Schedule Preventive Care in San Jose

If you’re due for a check-up or think a filling might need attention, our San Jose dental practice is here to help. We’ll examine your fillings, discuss your options, and recommend a replacement or crown only when it’s the best solution for your long-term dental health.

Don’t wait until discomfort turns into a bigger problem—call (408) 354-5600 today to schedule your appointment and keep your smile strong, healthy, and protected.