Most individuals experience cavities at some point during their lifetime and receive dental fillings to treat them. However, you should take care of your dental work to ensure you do not develop cavities underneath these fillings.
This recurrent decay can be difficult to diagnose without routine exams from your dental professional. Dr. Lynn Morgan, a dentist practicing in Severna Park, MD, responds to frequently asked questions regarding recurrent decay.
What Is Recurrent Decay?
Cavities are a form of tooth decay in which the surface of the tooth erodes to form a hole in the enamel. Your dentist treats this issue with a dental filling made from composite resin or silver.
The filling creates a seal over the exposed part of your tooth to protect it from further dental damage. But if this seal breaks, then you could be at risk of developing tooth decay underneath the filling, which dental professionals refer to as recurrent decay.
What Treatment Will I Require?
If your dentist diagnoses a cavity underneath your dental filling, the dentist must first remove the filling to access the damaged part of the tooth. Then, as with initial cavity scenarios, the dentist drills away the tooth decay.
The dentist will then give you another filling to reseal the area. More advanced tooth decay cases may require covering with a dental crown. Some patients may also need root canal therapy if the damage has reached the pulp of the tooth.
Can I Prevent Cavities from Forming Under Fillings?
A dental filling protects the vulnerable part of your tooth from developing other dental issues, including recurrent decay. For this reason, you should make sure that you take care of your fillings and other dental work so that they can continue shielding your tooth.
This means that you should continue practicing good oral hygiene habits, which can prevent cavity formation. You should also seek treatment for teeth grinding and clenching, as this behavior can wear down fillings, raising the risk of potential dental harm.
Learn More Tips from Your Dentist in Severna Park, MD
Dr. Morgan is a highly qualified family dentist offering preventative dentistry, including cleanings and exams, to patients in Severna Park, MD. Our practice also specializes in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, such as tooth replacement solutions. To schedule an appointment with our team, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 410.415.9015.