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Can a Tooth With A Filling Get a Cavity?

Cavity under filling

Many dental patients wonder if it is possible to get a cavity in a tooth that already has a filling. The answer is yes, it is possible for a tooth that already has a filling to get a cavity.

This can happen for a few reasons. First, the filling may not have been placed properly and there may be gaps around the edges of the filling where bacteria can enter. Second, the filling may simply be wearing down over time and no longer providing adequate protection against cavities. Third, the type of filling material may not be ideal for the tooth in question and may not provide adequate protection against cavities.

If a tooth with a filling does develop a cavity, it will need to be treated just like any other cavity. This usually involves drilling out the decay and then placing a new filling. In some cases, a crown or other type of dental restoration may be necessary.

How Does A Cavity Form Under A Filling?

Cavities form when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that eat away at the tooth enamel. This process is called demineralization. The bacteria that cause cavities are found in plaque, a sticky film that forms on teeth. Plaque is made up of food debris, saliva, and bacteria. When you eat or drink sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria in plaque produce acids. These acids can demineralize your tooth enamel, causing a cavity.

This explains why a tooth with a filling can form another cavity. Either the filling was not done properly at first allowing this bacteria to get under the tooth, or the filling has worn down over time causing it to crack and allow bacteria to enter.

How Do You Know If You Have a Cavity Under A Filling?

There are a few ways that you can suspect there is a cavity under a filling in one of your teeth. The first would be any pain in the suspected tooth when chewing or biting down. If there is any sharp pain or temperature sensitivity, this may be a sign of a cavity.

Another reason to suspect a cavity would be any changes in the color of the tooth. A change in color or opacity may be a sign that a cavity is present under the filling.

Lastly, If you see any visible cracks or damage in a filling, this can be a sign of a cavity, especially if you are experiencing other signs as well.

If you think you have a cavity under your filling, it is important to see a dentist right away so the issue does not worsen. The dentist will be the only one to ensure that you are dealing with a cavity or not. The dentist will take an X-Ray of your teeth to spot the cavity and replace the filling.

Contact Family Tree Dental To Have A Dental X-Ray

If you suspect that you have a cavity under a filling, you should visit a qualified dentist like Family Tree Dental to have an X-Ray taken. This is the only way to ensure that you do have a cavity and not something else. Once the cavity is confirmed, the dentist will be able to replace the filling and prevent further damage to your tooth.

At Family Tree Dental, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible dental care. We are located in Ohio and West Virginia. Our offices are located in Marietta, Belpre, and Parkersburg.

Rosemar Has Relocated!

Our new office is now located at 3 Rosemar Circle Suite A Parkersburg, WV 26104 – (about .25 miles from our old location).

We look forward to serving you in our new, updated location!