While some dental restorations, such as dental implants, are meant to last the rest of your life, others are not. For example, dental fillings need to be replaced if they chip, crack or show wear.
Keep in mind that not all damaged restorations will hurt. However, that still doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have them checked out by your dentist in Georgia.
Annual Checkup for Dental Restorations
Just like the rest of your mouth, your dental fillings need to be checked by your South Carolina dentist. Bela Family Dentistry explains that old fillings, such as silver amalgam fillings, are especially important to check over time as they could be leaking.
While the American Dental Association has given the okay to silver amalgam fillings, problems will occur if they chip, break, or leak. Silver amalgam fillings contain mercury and mercury is toxic. Repairing amalgam fillings or replacing with biocompatible tooth colored resin is the safest way to deal with old silver amalgam fillings.
Also, keep in mind that old silver amalgam fillings are more inclined to break because of age and other factors. If you have old fillings at the backs of your teeth they have probably dealt with years of chewing. If you clench and grind your teeth, even more so.
Are Old Dental Restorations Dangerous?
Any chipped or broken restorations need to be checked out by Bela Family Dentistry. Even tooth colored fillings must be examined for chips and cracks. If left untreated, old restorations could lead to more decay in the same tooth.
Chipped, cracked, broken, and leaky fillings are an open invitation to new dental caries. What makes this even worse is that you probably will not feel a new cavity in the same tooth. Breaks, chips, cracks, and leaks allow bacteria to get into the tooth. If you don’t take care of the problem, it will only get worse. If the tooth has a large cavity, you may need root canal therapy. If it is bad, the tooth may need to be extracted.
A Healthy Mouth for a Healthy Body
While you may be diligent with oral hygiene, it’s important to take notice of any changes, especially when it comes to dental restorations. Feel around with your tongue and check your teeth and gums out when you brush and floss. When caught in time, additional tooth decay is easily treated without root canal therapy or extraction.
Bela Family Dentistry explains that there is a link between oral and overall health. Dental restorations play a huge role in the overall health of your mouth. Regular dental checkups and restoration examination keeps your mouth and your body healthy.
If you haven’t had your dental restorations checked lately, call and schedule a dental checkup with your dentist in South Carolina. A healthy mouth is a healthy body.
Call for a dental appointment with Bela Family Dentistry today.
