Can a Tooth with a Filling Get Another Cavity?
When you have a cavity, your dentist will likely recommend treatment. Most often, this is done by installing a filling, where the damaged part of the tooth is removed and sealed with a resilient material designed to cover and protect the damaged area. However, once the filling is installed, an important question remains: Can a tooth with a filling get another cavity?
Without proper care, a tooth with a filling can still get another cavity. If the filling is cracked, chipped, or damaged, it can create a gap for bacteria to enter. They can settle and begin breeding, leading to further damage. This is one reason why oral hygiene is always important—it helps prevent conditions like cavities.
What Is a Cavity?
Cavities, also called tooth decay, are extremely common. They develop when damage occurs to the hard tissue of a tooth and eventually lead to small holes developing in the tooth.
No matter how much you take care of your oral health, your mouth is full of tiny bacteria. Think of it like a tiny ecosystem. These bacteria help form a sticky, colourless film known as plaque. When you eat and drink, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that break down the tooth enamel—the shiny outer layer of your teeth.
Thankfully, saliva helps neutralize these acids and returns the mouth to its natural balance. But when there is a constant attack from acid, it can eventually wear down the enamel. One of the most common ways this constant attack occurs is due to an overconsumption of sugars; bacteria thrive on sugar.
If you leave it unaddressed, these acids can wear right through the enamel in your teeth. This can create a small gap where bacteria begin to breed and multiply. They create more acids, and this hole gets bigger, leading to further damage as the cycle repeats. If left untreated for too long, this damage can reach the root of your tooth, which can be significantly more complicated to treat.
How to Tell if You Have a Cavity
So, how do you tell if you have a cavity? Fortunately, you can keep an eye out for some visual clues. Cavities usually start as subtle discolouration on your teeth, usually a small dark spot on the surface. As the decay progresses, you might feel a sharp pain when biting down or a consistent dull toothache.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli
- Visible holes or pits in your teeth
- A noticeable foul taste or persistent bad breath that stays, even if you brush your teeth or use mouthwash
If any of these sound familiar, it is time to visit your dentist to talk about fillings.
What Are Fillings?
When you have a cavity, a filling is usually the recommended treatment. This approach aims to repair a damaged or decayed tooth and restore its natural shape and function.
It begins with removing the decayed part of the tooth to make sure the bacteria will not cause further damage. Once this is done, the dentist fills the decay area. They will likely use amalgam, composite resins, or porcelain to fill the area.
When installed, this filling creates a smooth and resilient surface that is easy to clean and bacteria-resistant.
Do Fillings Permanently Fix Cavities?
However, it is important to note that fillings do not permanently fix a cavity. Although they can be an extremely resilient solution and a wonderful way to restore the natural function of your teeth, they are not invincible.
This means that they can still be vulnerable to new tooth decay in the area. If you have poor oral hygiene habits, bacteria can continue developing, infiltrating the natural tooth and causing further issues.
Along with this, fillings can wear down over the years. They can chip, crack, or even be knocked loose if you are not careful. This can create a small opening where bacteria can penetrate, and if the gap is small enough, it can be difficult to clean without the help of a dental professional.
If you have fillings, it is essential to maintain your oral health and take preventative measures to avoid developing cavities. This way, you can avoid any further complications.
Tips for Preventing Cavities
Whether or not you have a cavity, proper oral hygiene is crucial to taking care of your teeth. To protect them against further cavities, make sure you always:
- Brush 2 times a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush for 2 minutes to help your teeth stay clean and strong.
- Floss daily. This helps dislodge and remove trapped food particles between your teeth and the gum line.
- Use mouthwash regularly. This helps kill additional bacteria in the mouth.
And remember to visit your dentist regularly. Regular checkups are one of the easiest ways to prioritize oral health and keep your teeth strong and cavity-free.
What to Do if You Have a Cavity
Cavities are common, but that does not mean you should do nothing if you develop one. Instead, see our team at South Ancaster Family Dental. We can examine the damaged area and determine how to treat your cavities properly. Your teeth are precious, so book an appointment with our team today!