While a filling itself is not directly vulnerable to the machinations of bacteria, the surrounding tooth enamel that bonds the filling in place could still be at risk. The passage of time, inconsistencies in your oral hygiene routine, and the overall size of the filling can shorten a filling’s lifespan.
The larger and older a filling is, the more likely it is to go bad. This is often a result of the bacteria in your mouth infiltrating the microscopic seam between the filling and the adjacent tooth enamel. Sometimes you can notice a filling that’s in distress. This could come in the form of increased sensitivity, a change in texture, or an abnormal gray color building up within the tooth enamel surrounding the filling.
If one of your fillings is giving you trouble, you should not delay in seeking care with one of the dentists at Summit Village Dental’s clinic in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. After examining the tooth, we can present you with the applicable treatment options.
To treat a small distressed filling that is detected early, we might be able to repair the area by simply removing a small amount of additional enamel. Then a new, slightly larger filling can be secured in its place. If the compromised area is large, we might recommend replacing the tooth enamel layer with a crown.
A gray shade developing in the adjacent tooth enamel could be a sign that bacteria have invaded the seam between the filling and the healthy tooth enamel. Much of the cement has likely been compromised, and there could be serious potential for new decay to set in. If you’re also experiencing a toothache, you might need a root canal.
If you live in the Lee’s Summit, Missouri, area and you have a distressed filling, you should call 816-287-5650 to seek treatment with Summit Village Dental’s dentists.