Have you ever been surprised by a filling falling out? Does a crown show some wear? Many people assume dental work lasts forever, but that’s not always the case. In reality, most dental work requires maintenance over the years and may eventually need to be replaced.
Beavers & Broomfield Family Dentistry uses high-quality materials to support long-lasting results, but even well-made fillings, crowns, or dentures can experience natural wear over time. The length of time your dental work lasts can vary from person to person.
What Dental Work Is Often Long-Lasting?
Some dental treatments are designed to be very long-lasting, especially when paired with consistent home care and routine dental checkups.
Extractions (tooth removal) do not require future maintenance.
Dental implants are among the most durable treatment options available. An implant includes a base placed in the jawbone that holds a replacement crown. The base is intended to be long-lasting, though its success depends on factors like gum health, bone support, and lifestyle habits. The crown attached to the implant typically lasts many years and may eventually need replacement.
Permanent bridges are also made to be durable. They include a false tooth supported by anchors on both sides. These anchors may be crowns on natural teeth or dental implants—implants generally increase stability and longevity, but still require proper care and ongoing monitoring.
What Dental Work Typically Needs Replacement?
Several types of dental work are designed to last for many years but may eventually require replacement.
Dental Fillings
Many patients are surprised to learn that fillings are not considered lifetime restorations. Lifespan varies depending on the material used, oral habits, and overall dental health.
Here are general estimates for different types of dental fillings:
- Silver amalgam: About 9–21 years
- Composite resin: Often up to 10 years
- Ceramic: About 8–10 years
- Glass ionomer: About 5–7 years
- Gold: Often up to 20 years
Gold fillings are very durable but less commonly used today. Composite and ceramic fillings blend with the natural tooth color, which many patients prefer, though they may not last quite as long as amalgam.
If you received fillings as a child, it’s common to need replacements in adulthood as they age or wear down.
Dental Crowns
Crown lifespan also varies with material and home care. Approximate ranges include:
- Metal (gold or titanium): 20–30 years
- Zirconia: 15–20 years
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: 10–15 years
- Porcelain or ceramic: 10–15 years
- Resin: 3–5 years
Crowns can last a long time with proper care. Habits such as chewing ice, biting pens, or nail-biting can shorten their lifespan.
Light wear usually isn’t a concern, but a crown that becomes cracked, chipped, or significantly worn may need to be repaired or replaced.
Veneers
Veneers are sometimes called “permanent,” but that refers to their irreversibility, not their lifespan. Preparing teeth for veneers involves removing a small amount of enamel, meaning veneers will need to be maintained and eventually replaced.
Typical lifespan:
- Composite veneers: About 5–7 years
- Porcelain veneers: About 10–15 years
Dentures
Denture lifespan varies. Full dentures typically last 5–10 years, but adjustments may be needed as the jaw changes over time.
Implant-supported dentures may last up to 10 years with proper care, and partial dentures can often last up to 15 years.
Routine evaluations help ensure a good fit and extend their usefulness.
What Helps Dental Work Last Longer?
Dental work doesn’t last forever due to normal wear, changes in bite, gum health, tooth decay, teeth grinding, or trauma.
You can help dental restorations last as long as possible by:
- Practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily and flossing once a day
- Keeping regular dental visits to monitor restorations and catch issues early
- Wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Avoiding hard foods or objects that may crack or loosen dental work
- Supporting overall health with a nutrient-rich diet that benefits teeth and bone structure
FAQs About Dental Work
Can dental implants last a lifetime?
The implant base can last many years and may last a lifetime for some patients, depending on factors like bone health and gum stability. The crown on top typically lasts 10 to 20 years before it may need to be replaced.
Do crowns or fillings fall out over time?
A crown or filling can loosen or come out for several reasons, including natural wear, decay around the restoration, or bonding issues. If this happens, contact us promptly so we can evaluate and repair it.
Can veneers break or stain?
Veneers are highly durable and stain resistant, but they can still discolor over time and may chip or crack, especially with habits like teeth grinding or biting hard foods.
How often should dentures or partials be replaced?
Many dentures last 5 to 10 years or more, though the exact timing varies. Routine checkups can help determine when adjustments or replacement are needed.
Durable Dental Work in Fayetteville, AR
Common dental work is made to last for years, but not forever. The better you take care of your teeth and your dental work, the longer both will last. Visiting your dentist regularly should be part of that routine.
If you do need dental work repair in Fayetteville, AR, schedule an appointment with Beavers & Broomfield Family Dentistry. We’ll help you keep your smile complete, healthy, and strong!
