HAVE YOU EVER HEARD someone say that after you cut your finger, and it heals, that the scar tissue is stronger than normal tissue? Some opinions vary, but it appears that this notion is more myth than truth. But what about your teeth and your restorative dental work? Can a filling or a crown get a cavity?

It’s Important To Keep A Watchful Eye On Fillings And Other Dental Restorations

Regardless of where (or how long ago) dental procedures were performed, it’s really important to keep an eye on them. That’s a big part of your regular checkups at Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri. Here’s why:

1. Decay can sneak in around dental fillings, crowns, and other restorative dental work.
2. Sometimes, restorative work gives plaque additional nooks and crannies to hide in.
3. Typically, the lifespan of dental fillings is shorter than the lifespan of your tooth.
4. Checking for unusual wear, cracks, and chips can save much bigger problems later including more serious problems like gum disease and tooth loss.

How Long Should A Filling Last?

The results from research and studies into this question vary greatly. One of the reasons it’s difficult to predict the lifespan of a dental filling is because the conditions surrounding that filling are different in every case. It can depend on one or several of the following factors:

• The material used to create the filling. Amalgam, composite, gold?
• Where the filling is situated in the mouth. Under frequent pressure? Rarely used for chewing?
• How the filling is cared for. Consistent, thorough brushing and flossing?
• Is the patient a “grinder”? People who grind their teeth are harder on their dental work.
• Nature of the host tooth. Is the filling a small portion of the tooth? A larger portion?
• Does the patient frequently eat hard, sticky foods and/or candies?

“An Ounce Of Prevention Is Worth A Pound Of Cure”

Your mom was right—an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure. That’s why regular checkups are SO important. When dental fillings and other dental work get older and worn, they can be more prone to cracks (or even falling out). Regular appointments allow these things to be monitored and checked to catch problems before they become emergencies.

Next time you visit Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri, ask us about possible options for replacing old dental fillings, and how long you can expect yours to last. For some people, this is also a cosmetic decision because today’s tooth-colored fillings and restorations can look a lot nicer when you smile. If you have concerns or questions BEFORE your next appointment, please comment below or on our Facebook page and we will get right back to you.

We hope this information has been helpful to you.

We can’t express it often enough… Thank you for being our valued patients and friends! We appreciate you.

Enamel and Erosion

 

Your teeth’s enamel may be tough, but your teeth still need your help to protect them from erosion. Find out below how you can avoid problems with enamel erosion.

What is tooth enamel?

Enamel is the white looking outer covering of the tooth crown. This protective shell is the hardest tissue in the human body but it can be softened by exposure to acids.

What does tooth enamel do?

Tooth enamel protects your teeth from daily wear and tear. It also protects teeth from sensitivity to heat and cold.  And, although this tissue is tough, it can chip or crack. Unfortunately, enamel can only remineralize (re-harden) to a certain degree, so it’s important to protect it from damage, and if it becomes damaged, to have Dr. Cardon repair the damage for you.

What is acid erosion of enamel?

Acid erosion occurs when acids wear away at the tooth’s enamel. When this occurs, it exposes the tooth’s inner layers, which increases sensitivity and makes the tooth more susceptible to cavities or tooth decay.

What causes acid erosion of the enamel?

Acid erosion can be caused by the following:

• Excessive soft drink consumption, especially with beverages that contain high levels of phosphoric and citric acids
• Sports and energy drinks
• Fruit drinks
• Plaque
• Diets high in sugar and starches
• Medical factors that damage the enamel including acid corrosion (due to conditions such as bulimia and gastro-esophageal reflux disease or GERD)

Damage to the enamel also can be caused by environmental factors, including friction (bruxism) and abrasion (brushing too hard).

What are the signs of enamel erosion?

The signs of erosive damage vary but may include:

• Tooth sensitivity that ranges from mild to severe when exposed to certain foods and temperatures
• Tooth discoloration
• Tooth transparency
• Cracks and chips on the edges of teeth

Another sign of erosion is indentations in the tooth’s surface. These tiny indentations may be referred to as “cupping.”

How can acid erosion of enamel be prevented?

It’s important to brush and floss teeth daily, as well as see your dentist every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. If erosion is a concern, we may recommend the following:

• Eliminate or reduce highly acidic foods and drinks from your diet.
• Avoid brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks. Acidic foods and drinks soften the enamel, which then can be damaged by the abrasive action of brushing. Wait to brush for at least 30 minutes to allow your mouth to produce enough saliva to neutralize the acidity and allow the enamel to re-harden.
• Rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods or drinks. Water helps dilute acidity in the mouth.
• If you drink acidic drinks, use a straw and don’t swish the liquid around in your mouth. (The straw pushes the liquid to the back of your mouth, reducing contact with the teeth.)
•  Avoid sugary snacks
• Chew sugar-free gum between meals. Chewing gum increases saliva production.
• Drink water throughout the day.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste

Ask Dr. Cardon about whether or not you should add a fluoride mouthwash to your daily oral health care routine. For some individuals, this may be recommended.

How is enamel erosion treated?

If enamel loss is minimal, we may apply a bonding material that will protect the tooth and improve its appearance. If the enamel loss is more significant, Dr. Cardon may recommend protecting the tooth by covering it with a crown. Together we can determine the best treatment option for you at Stadium Dental Center.

Learn more at http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sensitive-teeth

 

 

 

A SIP OF COFFEE, A SPOONFUL OF ICE CREAM… you never thought that these simple pleasures could cause pain! But when you have sensitive teeth, your favorite foods and beverages can turn against you. Even sour foods and cold weather can drive you crazy!

Sensitive teeth are a common problem. Here are four great tips for easing the discomfort:

#1: Check Your Brushing Technique
Sometimes the problem is that you’re actually TOO enthusiastic with your routine care. If you’re brushing too much or too hard, it can contribute to receding gums. When gums recede, sensitive areas of your teeth are exposed. Always brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush gently in a circular motion without sawing back-and-forth.

#2: Minimize Acidic Foods & Drinks
One major culprit in an over-acidic diet is soft drinks—but sports/energy drinks, fruit juices, and sour candies can also contribute. Acid erodes your tooth enamel.

Detailed Info About The Causes Of Tooth Sensitivity

#3: Consider Changing Your Toothpaste
Do you use a whitening toothpaste? Check the usage instructions. Whitening toothpastes can be more abrasive which can contribute to sensitivity. If your teeth are hurting, try a toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth instead.

#4: Come Visit With Us!
If you’re experiencing continued sensitivity, we should take a look. Receding gums can be a sign of gum disease. Sensitivity could also indicate a cavity, or be a warning that you’re grinding your teeth at night. To be sure it’s not a serious problem it may be necessary for us to take a look.

Thanks for your trust in Stadium Dental Center in Jefferson City, Missouri. We appreciate you!
If you have questions about tooth sensitivity, please message us directly on our Facebook page or on our homepage. We love to hear from you.