Fillings at 30: What’s Average and When to Be Concerned About Cavities
Did you know the average adult has a few dental fillings by the time they’re 30? Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, and fillings are the standard treatment.
But just how many fillings are normal at 30—and when should you be concerned?
Research shows that most adults in the U.S. have around 3–4 dental fillings by the time they’re 30.
Some lucky people have none, while others may have more if they experienced frequent cavities as kids or skipped regular dental checkups. Having a few tooth fillings in adulthood is very common and nothing to be embarrassed about.
Why Some Adults Have More Fillings
The number of fillings you have at 30 depends on several factors:
- Diet: High sugar intake often means more cavities and more fillings.
- Oral hygiene: Daily brushing and flossing help prevent tooth decay.
- Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to cavities.
- Dental care: Routine exams and cleanings catch cavities early before they need larger fillings.
When to Worry About Cavities and Fillings
A handful of fillings at 30 is normal. But if you’ve had 8–10 or more cavity fillings by age 30, it could be a sign of high cavity risk. That doesn’t mean your teeth are unhealthy—it just means tooth decay prevention should be a bigger focus going forward.
At Schwimmer Dental in New Jersey, we specialize in preventive care, cavity fillings, cosmetic dentistry, and dental emergencies. If you’re looking for the best dentist in New Jersey to protect your smile at any age, we’ve got you covered.
FAQs
1. Is it bad to have several fillings at 30 years old?
Not at all. Many adults have multiple fillings by 30—it’s more important to focus on preventing new cavities.
2. How long do dental fillings last?
Most fillings last 10–15 years, but this depends on the filling type, your diet, and oral hygiene habits.
3. How can adults prevent more cavities?
Use fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, cut back on sugary drinks, and schedule regular dental checkups for early cavity detection.
Sources:
- https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/php/2024-oral-health-surveillance-report/ohsr2024-table-12.html
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17002-dental-fillings
- https://www.dentalhealth.org/different-filling-materials
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8407050/
- https://dental.cuanschutz.edu/patient-care/patient-education/fillings
