The biggest threat to your smile is tooth decay. Although it’s preventable, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 92% of adults have had a cavity in a permanent tooth. Furthermore, 1 in 4 adults has untreated cavities. Thankfully, decay doesn’t have to lead to the loss of a tooth. Your dentist can save your smile with a dental filling. Whether amalgam or composite, they are affordable and effective, but how long do dental fillings last? The answer depends on how well you care for them. Here’s how you can ensure your filling lasts for decades.