How Long Do Composite Fillings Last? 5 Signs You Might Need a Replacement

Composite fillings are a popular way to repair cavities and restore chipped teeth. Unlike silver fillings, these are tooth-colored and blend into your smile. They’re often chosen because they match natural enamel and don’t stand out, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. Many patients who come in for cosmetic dental services in Concord choose composite fillings for a seamless look.

But while they work well and look good, they don’t last forever. Many people forget about their fillings after the procedure until something feels off. Knowing how long composite fillings last, what affects their life span, and the signs that it’s time to replace them can prevent more serious dental problems.  

Average Lifespan of Composite Fillings 

Composite fillings usually last between 5 to 10 years, depending on a range of daily habits and health factors. They don’t have an exact expiration date, but they do wear down over time. The location of the filling, how often you chew on it, and how well you care for your teeth all matter.

Fillings on the biting surfaces of molars tend to wear out quicker than those on the front teeth. That’s because they take more force from chewing, grinding, or biting. Small fillings also tend to last longer than larger ones. If a large section of the tooth was rebuilt with composite material, it may break down faster than a small filling placed early.

Temperature changes in your mouth also impact longevity. Drinking very hot or cold liquids daily causes the material to expand and contract, which may lead to tiny cracks. Over time, these cracks allow bacteria to enter the tooth, weakening the filling.

What Can Shorten the Life of a Filling? 

Even high-quality composite fillings can fail earlier than expected if daily habits or oral conditions wear them out. Understanding what contributes to wear and tear helps prevent early replacements.

Chewing Pressure 

Fillings placed in the back of the mouth take the brunt of chewing. Crunching ice, chewing gum regularly, or biting on hard foods like nuts or popcorn kernels increases the risk of wear. Over time, the constant pressure can chip or fracture the material.

Teeth Grinding and Clenching 

People who grind or clench their teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism) put extra force on both teeth and fillings. This habit may be unconscious, but it adds up. The motion of grinding causes surface stress and can crack or loosen the composite material.

Dentists often recommend custom night guards to reduce the damage. These devices protect the enamel and the restoration by distributing the pressure more evenly while you sleep.

Oral Hygiene Habits 

Composite fillings don’t protect your tooth from decay, they only restore the part that was lost. Poor brushing and flossing habits can lead to new decay around the edge of the filling. Once decay starts again, it compromises the bond between the filling and the natural tooth.

Plaque that builds near the gumline may also irritate the tissue, causing inflammation or gum disease. This can expose more of the tooth’s surface, putting even more stress on older fillings.

Diet and Acidic Foods 

What you eat every day affects how long your fillings last. Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, sodas, vinegars, and energy drinks can soften the resin and weaken the bond to the tooth. Sugary snacks and sticky candies also feed the bacteria that cause decay.

Signs Your Filling Might Need to Be Replaced 

Even if you brush and floss daily, composite fillings don’t last forever. Over time, the bond between the tooth and the resin can wear out, break, or develop small leaks that aren’t always easy to spot. Recognizing the early warning signs of a failing filling can help prevent further damage to your tooth and reduce the risk of needing more complex treatments later.

1. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold 

One of the first signs many people notice is a sharp or lingering pain when eating or drinking something hot or cold. This type of sensitivity might not seem serious at first, especially if it goes away quickly. But when a composite filling starts to fail, tiny gaps can open between the filling and the tooth. These gaps expose the inner layer of the tooth, called dentin, to temperature changes, which leads to pain.

If your tooth didn’t used to react this way and suddenly becomes sensitive to hot coffee, ice water, or even room-temperature foods, the filling may no longer be sealing the tooth as it should.

2. Pain While Chewing 

Pain or pressure when chewing is another strong indicator that a filling may need to be replaced. This discomfort may feel like a dull ache or a sharp pinch when you bite down. In either case, it usually means the filling has either shifted slightly or that the tooth underneath is no longer stable.

Sometimes, chewing pain points to new decay under the filling. As bacteria get between the tooth and the old resin, they weaken the structure and create soft spots that respond to pressure. This type of decay can spread quickly and may not be visible from the outside. Some patients considering Invisalign for adults in Concord often discover worn fillings during their initial dental evaluations.

3. Rough or Uneven Surface 

A filling should feel smooth and even when you run your tongue over it. If the surface of the tooth starts to feel jagged, sharp, or bumpy, that’s a clear sign something has changed. Sometimes, small pieces of composite break off due to wear and tear. Even if the chip is minor, it can affect how your teeth come together when you bite and can also irritate your tongue or cheek.

An uneven filling also means food particles and bacteria are more likely to get trapped around the area, which increases the risk of decay. Dentists may use a tool to test the filling for stability or press on the area to see if it moves under pressure.