If you’ve had a dental filling, you may have wondered how long it will last — and whether it can eventually fall out. The truth is, yes — fillings can fall out over time, but there are ways to reduce the risk and protect your smile.
Here’s what causes fillings to come loose, how to know when it’s time for a replacement, and what to do if your filling suddenly falls out.
⏳ First: How Long Do Fillings Last?
On average, dental fillings last between 5 and 15 years, depending on:
- The type of material used (composite, amalgam, gold, etc.)
- Where the filling is located in your mouth
- The size of the filling
- Your oral hygiene and daily habits
Over time, normal wear and tear can weaken the bond between the filling and your natural tooth — making it more likely to loosen or fall out.
🔎 Why Do Fillings Fall Out?
There are several reasons a filling may come loose or fall out:
1. Wear and Tear
Fillings are subjected to daily chewing forces, especially on molars. Over time, biting, grinding, and temperature changes from hot or cold foods can cause fillings to break down or loosen.
2. Tooth Decay Around the Filling
If bacteria sneak in around the edges of your filling, decay can develop underneath. As the decay spreads, it can weaken the structure of the tooth, causing the filling to lose its support and fall out.
3. Biting Something Hard
Chewing ice, hard candy, or other solid items can crack or dislodge a filling — especially if it’s already aging or weakened.
4. Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)
If you grind your teeth at night or clench during the day, you may be putting excess pressure on your fillings — which can cause them to wear down or pop out sooner than expected.
5. Old or Improperly Placed Fillings
No dental material lasts forever. Over time, even the best fillings may shrink, crack, or wear out. Occasionally, a filling may fall out early due to a poor bond or improper placement — though this is rare with experienced providers.
⚠️ Signs Your Filling May Be Failing
Keep an eye out for these early warning signs:
- Tooth sensitivity (especially to pressure or temperature)
- A feeling of roughness, looseness, or change in bite
- Food getting stuck in the same area
- Pain or discomfort when chewing
- A visible crack or gap in the filling
If your filling does fall out, don’t panic — but do act quickly.
🆘 What Should You Do If a Filling Falls Out?
Call your dentist right away to schedule a repair.
Keep the area clean — rinse with warm salt water if needed.
Avoid chewing on that side to prevent further damage.
If you’re experiencing discomfort, take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Do not try to glue it back yourself — this can lead to infection or complications.
If left untreated, the exposed tooth could develop further decay or infection — or even require a root canal.
🛡️ How to Prevent Fillings From Falling Out
- Brush and floss daily to avoid decay around your fillings
- Avoid chewing hard objects (ice, pens, fingernails)
- See your dentist every 6 months for checkups — we’ll monitor the condition of your fillings
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Replace aging fillings before they fail
✅ Final Thoughts
Yes — dental fillings can fall out over time, but with proper care and regular checkups, they can last many years. The key is catching issues early and acting quickly if something doesn’t feel right.
Think a filling might be loose or worn out? Book a dental exam today — we’ll assess the area, repair the issue, and make sure your tooth stays healthy and strong.