Dental fillings are generally cured and bonded to the surrounding tooth enamel or cemented in place with a potent dental adhesive. This gives them the strength and structural integrity to repair the tooth for many years.
However, as time goes on the relationship between the surrounding tooth enamel and the dental filling material can gradually start to degrade. This is even more likely to be an issue if you don’t brush your teeth and floss at least once each day, or you have a bad habit of skipping dental checkups at Dr. Kerry Taylor’s dental office.
As the surfaces between the tooth enamel and the dental filling start to degrade the natural bacteria in your mouth can start to infiltrate the tooth enamel. This could cause discomfort and heightened sensitivity in the tooth. In time, it could even cause a new area of tooth decay to form dangerously deep within the tooth.
A small filling that’s distressed or falls out might be repaired by having Dr. Kerry Taylor remove a small amount of tooth enamel before applying a slightly larger dental filling. If the original dental filling was large or a new area of tooth decay has become established he might recommend treating the tooth with a dental crown.
If the bacterial presence has invaded the pulp or root of the tooth, Dr. Kerry Taylor might need to perform a root canal. This will excise all traces of tooth decay and rebuild sufficient structure for anchoring a dental crown.
If you live in the Chandler, Arizona, area and you have a missing or distressed filling, you should call 480.786.1734 to have it examined and treated at Chandler Dental Excellence.