Skip to Content
chevron-left chevron-right chevron-up chevron-right chevron-left arrow-back star phone quote checkbox-checked search wrench info shield play connection mobile coin-dollar spoon-knife ticket pushpin location gift fire feed bubbles home heart calendar price-tag credit-card clock envelop facebook instagram twitter youtube pinterest yelp google reddit linkedin envelope bbb pinterest homeadvisor angies
Oct 13, 2025|Dental Restorations

Comparing the Lifespans of Dental Restorations

Dental restorations are intended to protect your teeth, keep your bite strong, and help you smile with confidence. But like everything in life, they don’t last forever. The longevity of each dental restoration type depends on the materials used, the quality of placement, and how well you care for your teeth every day.

A dentist examining a patient's teeth

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are tooth-colored restorations that blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile. They’re a popular choice for treating small to medium cavities.

On average, composite fillings last six to 10 years, although some can reach 12 to 14 years with excellent tooth filling care. Their lifespan depends heavily on the size of the cavity and how much pressure the tooth takes when you bite.

Amalgam Fillings

Silver-colored amalgam fillings may not be as aesthetically pleasing as composite restorations, but they’re tough. These restorations generally last at least 10 to 15 years, with many reaching closer to two decades.

They’re less common today because they don’t blend in, but for hard-to-see molars that do the brunt of the chewing, amalgam remains one of the longest-lasting filling materials. The most common reason to replace an amalgam filling is to address cracks in the surrounding tooth structure.

Ceramic Crowns

Ceramic crowns are made from strong, metal-free materials that provide excellent durability and a natural look. They are especially useful for patients with metal allergies. On average, ceramic crowns last 12 to 20 years.

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are chosen for their pearly-white appearance, making them a popular option for front teeth. While they offer great aesthetics, they are more prone to chipping and wear compared to other crown materials. Even so, they can still last 10 to 15 years with proper care.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

PFM crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the aesthetics of a porcelain covering. The average dental crown lifespan of this material is 15 to 20 years. The porcelain layer may eventually chip, but the underlying metal structure keeps the crown functional even when minor damage occurs.

Gold Crowns

Gold teeth aren’t as popular today because of their noticeable appearance, but they can last 20 to 30 years or longer. Their remarkable dental longevity comes from their strength and resistance to wear, making them one of the most reliable choices for protecting a damaged tooth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants replace missing teeth permanently. They consist of a titanium post that integrates with the jawbone and a crown mounted to a post on top for a natural appearance. With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, implants can last 25 years or longer. The crown portion of an implant may need replacement after 10 to 20 years, depending on the material, but the implant itself is even more durable.

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures replace an entire arch of teeth. The fit gradually changes as your gums and jawbone shift, so relining or rebasing may be needed along the way. Regular checkups also ensure your dentures remain comfortable and functional. With this in mind, dentures typically need to be replaced after eight to 12 years.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are a removable option for replacing multiple missing teeth. They tend to last a little longer than complete dentures because they rely on surrounding teeth for support, which helps them stay stable. With consistent care and adjustments, they usually last 10 to 15 years. Note that metal-based partials are stronger and longer-lasting than flexible or acrylic options.

Tips to Make Your Dental Restorations Last Longer

Even the strongest restorations can wear out if you don’t care for them consistently. Here’s how to keep your fillings, crowns, implants, or dentures in great shape:

  • Brush and floss: Use a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day and floss daily to prevent decay around your restorations.
  • Rinse with antibacterial mouthwash: This adds extra protection against plaque and gum disease.
  • Choose tooth-friendly foods: Limit sugary snacks and avoid chewing hard items like ice, pens, or crunchy candy.
  • Break bad habits: Stop biting your nails and never use your teeth to tear tape or open packages.
  • Protect your teeth at night: Wear a mouthguard when you sleep if you grind your teeth.
  • Wear a sports mouthguard: Safeguard your restorations and natural teeth while playing contact sports.
  • See your dentist regularly: Schedule routine oral exams and cleanings to catch minor issues with your restorations before they escalate.

Take Care of Your Smile with Our Help

S&L Dental has been transforming smiles for decades. We serve families and individuals of all ages in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, focusing on comfort during the procedure and results that last. If you want restorations that look great, feel natural, and stand the test of time, we’d love to help. Schedule a visit to our Paradise Valley office today to discuss your options.

Back to the top