Dental fillings are a popular dental treatment for cavities that help restore and protect the tooth. But did you know that cavities can still form under fillings? It is important to understand that even after getting fillings, your tooth is not completely safe from cavities. One of the major reasons this happens is due to poor oral hygiene.
When you do not maintain a strict oral care routine where you brush twice a day and floss once before bed, plaque can build up. Another reason could be that fillings wear down with time. Small gaps can start appearing in your dental filling, through which bacteria and food can get inside, leading to cavities. The materials used and your age affect how long a filling lasts.
If you consume a lot of sugary snacks or sweet drinks, you can make the problem worse. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, making it easier for cavities to grow. If you suspect that your fillings have worn out or that there are cavities under your fillings, visit an Oshawa dentist today for a check-up.
How cavities form under fillings
Cavities can still form under dental fillings, even if they were meant to protect your teeth. Here are some common reasons why it happens:
Improper sealing
A dental filling must bond properly to your tooth to prevent bacteria from getting in. If there are gaps between the filling and the tooth, bacteria and food particles can slip under the filling. Most of the leaks happen in the area where the filling meets the tooth. Therefore, it is important for dentists to ensure that the seal is tight during the procedure.
Wear and tear
Dental fillings are subject to everyday wear and tear, such as eating, chewing, biting, speaking, etc. They can crack and even shift from their places. Even if you do not eat hard foods, they can still wear down from normal use. Therefore, gaps form around them, and it becomes easier for bacteria to enter them.
Continued sugar and acid exposure.
Even if you have dental filling, eating too much sugar or acidic food items can cause decay and cavities. Sugar feeds bacteria, which produce acid that erodes the tooth and worsens decay. If you continue eating these foods after a filling is placed, you increase the chance of cavities forming beneath the filling.
Saliva and moisture.
Moisture during the filling process is more important than you think. If the tooth area is not properly dried out and if saliva gets in, it can prevent the filling from bonding. This can lead to bacteria getting underneath and causing cavities. The filling may appear completely fine from the outside.
Signs that cavities may be developing under a filling
1. Pain or sensitivity.
If you are experiencing pain or sensitivity in the tooth when chewing or consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods, it is one of the most common signs of decay under a filling. This type of discomfort only occurs when bacteria manage to get in and infiltrate the area under the filling.
2. Visible cracks or chips.
If your dental filling has cracks, chips, or missing pieces, it could be a warning sign that decay is taking place beneath the surface. These physical signs of damage may indicate that the filling is no longer properly sealed.
3. Bitter taste or bad breath.
A persistent bitter taste or bad breath can also indicate that cavities are forming under a filling. When bacteria gets trapped under the filling, it can lead to unpleasant odors and flavors in the mouth. If these symptoms persist, it is crucial to visit your dentist.
Concerned about cavities under your fillings?
Early detection is important to prevent further damage and cavities. Schedule a check-up with your Oshawa dentist today if you suspect you have cavities under your fillings!
