Extending the Lifetime of Dental Fillings for Kids

Dental fillings for kids are long-lasting dental restorations for mild to moderate tooth decay. With the right care, they can last up to 15 years. Some types of fillings can last even longer. Learn about the basics of dental fillings and their aftercare to help them last as long as possible.

An overview of dental fillings for kids

Pediatric dentists typically offer several types of dental fillings for kids. The most common are tooth-colored fillings, which may consist of either porcelain or a composite resin material. Porcelain fillings can last over 15 years, while composite fillings last about five to 10 years on average. Metal fillings are a good middle ground between the two, lasting about 10 to 15 years. However, since they are made of silver amalgam or gold, they are not tooth-colored. Thus, they are generally reserved for molars and premolars.

Tips to help your child’s dental fillings last

Proper care is essential to making any type of dental filling last. Parents can follow the tips below to help extend the lifetime of their child’s dental restoration.

Avoid certain foods — at least for 24 hours

Dental fillings are cemented into the tooth's structure. They bring minimal changes to a child's diet, as they serve as part of the natural tooth. However, certain foods can break or dislodge the filling, especially in the first 24 hours of receiving it. Examples include hard nuts, hard candies, and extremely sticky and chewy foods such as toffee. While patients do not need to avoid these foods entirely, they should chew on the side of the mouth that is free of dental fillings.

Encourage good oral hygiene habits

Good oral hygiene, which includes brushing and flossing, prevents future cavities and gum disease and helps to keep any current fillings in good condition. For instance, regular brushing prevents staining and discoloration of the fillings. Choose a nonabrasive toothpaste and soft toothbrush for best results.

Keep regular dental appointments

Like adults, children should visit the dentist every six months for a dental cleaning. These appointments are particularly important for kids' dental fillings. A filling can become chipped or damaged without the patient noticing. Thus, these regular appointments allow the dentist to identify and repair any damaged fillings, helping them last longer.

Notify the dentist of any damage or issues immediately

If a parent or child notices that a dental filling has become damaged or loose, it is recommended to consult a pediatric dentist immediately. The sooner it is repaired, the less extensive the repair is likely to be. The dentist will also be better equipped to prevent decay in the event that the filling has fallen out completely.