Lifeline Dental of Houston

1147 Clear Lake City Blvd, Houston, TX 77062

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Can You Get Cavities After A Filling?

  • October 30, 2024
  • 339 Views
Dental or tooth fillings are a great option for restoring decayed or damaged teeth. They stop the spread of decay and allow your teeth to function normally. However, many people often question whether they can get cavities after a dental filling. The simple answer is yes; it is possible for a restored tooth to develop a cavity. In this blog, we will discuss the potential causes of this issue and what you can do to maintain a healthy smile.

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    Can A Cavity Form After Getting A Dental Filling?

    Our teeth have a protective outer layer called enamel, which is the hardest structure in the human body. Despite its strength, the tooth enamel can break down when oral bacteria in plaque and tartar produce harmful acids. The higher your sugar intake, the greater the risk of cavities. The tooth structure demineralizes over time, causing a small cavity.

    In some cases, it is possible to get a cavity even after the tooth has been restored with a dental filling. This issue may occur if the filling was not done properly, the material was chipped due to high biting force, or there was a lack of good oral hygiene after treatment.

    Questions About Can You Get Cavities After A Filling? ?

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    How To Tell If There Is A Cavity Under A Filling?

    Initially, you may not notice any symptoms or changes in your mouth that may indicate a cavity under a filling. However, if the cavity enlarges, you may notice certain signs, such as:

    • Dull or sharp pain in your restored tooth
    • Pain upon biting or chewing food
    • Sensitivity to hot and cold substances
    • Changes in the color of the tooth
    • Visible chips or cracks in the filling material
    • Loose dental filling

    If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to seek professional dental care right away. Your dentist will assess the tooth and perform dental X-rays to determine whether there is a cavity under the filling. If the issue is present, they may suggest replacing the filling or performing root canal treatment.

    Tips To Prevent Cavities After Getting A Filling

    Tooth fillings can last long and provide protection to your teeth, but they require routine oral care and hygiene maintenance. Here are some effective ways to prevent decay after dental fillings:

    • Brush your teeth regularly and use gentle circular motions to clean all the areas of your teeth.
    • Floss the areas between your teeth and gums to prevent plaque buildup. You can also use interdental brushes or water flossers.
    • Limit the intake of foods and drinks that are rich in sugar. Also, try avoiding acidic foods and drinks that may erode enamel.
    • Drink plenty of water as it helps rinse away the remaining food particles and acids in your mouth.
    • Get routine dental checkups and cleanings as recommended by your dentist to ensure that your teeth remain healthy.
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    Let me just say that I’m not one who goes to the dentist often. But when I do this is the place that I go to. The staff are very welcoming for new and existing patients. When I went I was a little nervous at first but when I got there the staff talked with me asked how my day was, told me what they planned to do in terms I understood, that sort of thing. And when I was in the chair I was in and out in no time at all and didn’t feel any pain.

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    Summing Up

    It is possible to get cavities even after getting your teeth restored with a dental filling. However, you can prevent this issue with at-home oral care and routine dental checkups. For a professional consultation, visit our dental specialists at Lifeline Dental or call (281) 409-3777 to schedule an appointment.