Saturday, March 1, 2014

Decay Could Be Lurking Under Your Old Fillings

Dental Bonding is a quick and inexpensive procedure that can give you the smile that you have always dreamed of having. Talk to your dentist about Dental Bonding to fill that gap in-between your teeth or to replace those unsightly silver amalgam fillings that you have had for years. Most people have no idea that those 10, 15 or 20 year old silver fillings could be covering up tooth decay.

Constant pressure on your teeth caused by chewing, clenching or grinding can crack, chip, or wear away at your dental fillings, and although you may not have any idea that your fillings are wearing down, but your dentist certainly can.

According to Dr. Rick Barkley, it is actually the seal that lies between the fillings and the enamel on your teeth that is to blame. If there is a leak or the filling was never put in properly in the first place, you could have additional decay under that filling. Unfortunately, like all tooth decay it will not just go away. If left untreated, those cavities underneath your filling could eventually infect the pulp in your tooth leading to a dangerous abscessed tooth.

Schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately if you suspect tooth decay under your fillings. You may not have pain, but any sensitivity in the area could indicate tooth decay.

Large fillings that have recurrent decay may not have enough support in the tooth for a replacement filling. If that is the case, you may need a dental crown.

If new fillings are not staying put it is time to find a dentist, as your old dentist may not have properly prepared the decay before filling the tooth. Other problems with new fillings could be contamination, chewing trauma, or restoration fractures.

When you schedule a check-up with your dentist, he will do a thorough examination taking x-rays of your teeth and gums. Dr. Barkley will be able to determine if you have tooth decay underneath your old fillings and discuss your options. If the decay is too close to the nerve, a root canal may be your only option.

Even if you brush twice and floss once a day you could still be dealing with tooth decay. Schedule an appointment today.