Caries re-development inside filled teeth??

[depaul]

Dear members,
I have a filled tooth since 3 years. I've noticed lately that it got darker and when I checked with the dentist we discovered caries inside it, eventhough it's filled.

Is it common to get caries regrowth inside fillied teeth?

I'm getting crown soon but I fear the caries develop again inside it.
Thanks.

 

[rob wain]

The caries can reestablish if:
1. some was left inside at the time (not unusual and not a problem) AND the filling has leaked since.
2. the filling has leaked allowing new decay to establish, generally, this is at the side of the filling not underneath it.

The darkness could also be caused by staining of the filling by tea or coffee.

 

[mags]

What I suspect is that fillings (composite) almost never work.

 

[rob wain]

it rather depends what you mean by 'work'. All dentistry fails eventually, some materials look better, last longer, cost less than others. It's just a matter of choosing the best solution for your needs.
The absolute best dental solution is to not need any fillings in the first place. Practice prevention in your diet and hygiene. cheapest, longest lasting most natural looking solution on the market.

 

[comfortdentist]

I do not place amalgams because patients where I practice do not want them. I place a lot of composite restorations and in order to have a good lifespan they MUST be placed under very good conditions. Any moisture will cause a leakage as that spot will not be sealed well. Dentists use devices to keep the tooth dry in order to allow the best bond to the tooth. Dentists use rubber dams, suction, cotton rolls, etc. An amalgam should also be placed under dry conditions but not as critical.

 

[mags]

Practice prevention in your diet and hygiene. cheapest, longest lasting most natural looking solution on the market.

100% agree.

But the first thing that dentists in my country do when any kind of cavity emerge is to pick up the drill.

I guess that only 1% of them first try to change the diet of the patient in order to avoid drilling.

 

[Dr. Daniel]

Hi guys,
What an interesting discussion! so why not jump in?

There is a lot of truth in Mags' statement. I do agree that some dentists tend to drill too fast but on the other hand, who can blame them? The system in some countries is designed so that the dentist gets paid according to his/her dental work and rarely for prevention of future problems. That's the sad truth. If you want to change that, you have to change the mindset of dentists, patients and insurance companies.