Dental Restorations – Why You Need Periodic Check-Ups

Routine checks are important not only to detect any new issues, but to check the health of previous restorations too.

Most of us probably tend to think of a check-up appointment as an opportunity to find out whether anything new has gone wrong, whether that be with our teeth or gums. Is there a cavity starting to develop? Are the gums looking inflamed? Basically, just checking to see if there is anything that needs to be treated before things become worse. They are also a good opportunity to offer advice about brushing etc too.

This is important, of course. But there is also another important part of a routine examination that can sometimes be overlooked, and that is the checking of any dental work you have previously had. If a filling was placed several years ago, a crown fitted after you broke a tooth for example, they may still be doing their job perfectly well. Even so, they don’t necessarily last for ever, and problems can sometimes develop before you even notice any obvious symptoms.

Modern materials

The modern materials that we use at the Foxhall Dental Practice are designed to be strong and long lasting, but they still have to cope with quite a lot on a daily basis with significant forces caused by chewing and biting our food. Some people also put extra pressure on their teeth by grinding or clenching them, often without realising they are doing so. Over time then, it is not surprising that problems sometimes arise. A filling could wear down or develop a small fracture. The natural tooth at the edge of a crown could become vulnerable to decay if not cleaned sufficiently well. A restoration, such as a filling, may also loosen or become damaged.

Many restorations will remain in good condition for a very long time. Their lifespan depends on many factors including the material used, the size of the restoration, the health of the tooth and the forces that are placed on it. Despite this, it is still possible for them to need repairing or replacing altogether.

What does our Ipswich dental team look for?

During a routine examination, your dentist will check the condition of your teeth, gums and any existing restorations. In the case of fillings, they may look for signs of wear, cracks or damage around the edges. They will also check whether there are any signs of decay developing in the natural part of the filled tooth. Fillings themselves won’t decay of course, but the natural  part of the tooth around it can. If decay develops at the edge of a restoration, it may  be difficult to detect without a proper examination.

Crowns and bridges need attention too. Our dentist will look at their condition and check how they are fitting, as well as examining the supporting teeth and gums. If you have a dental bridge, the areas around and underneath it need to be kept clean, as plaque can collect there and we will check for this. Dental implants cannot develop tooth decay, but the surrounding gums and bone can be affected by inflammation and diseases such as periodontitis and peri-implantitis. The implant, its connecting components and the crown or bridge attached to it will all need to be checked.

Think there is nothing wrong?

This is a key reason why regular dental checks are so important. If we are not experiencing any problems, we may well just assume that a filling or crown is OK and that there are no issues. Often, that will be the case, but  this is not always so. Early decay around a filling, for example, may not cause pain. A small crack in a tooth can also go unnoticed until it becomes more serious. Some gum problems develop quite gradually, with few obvious symptoms at first.

By the time any discomfort is noticed, any issues may have progressed further than would have been the case if it had been spotted earlier. A check-up can’t prevent every problem of course, and some conditions are difficult to detect in their earliest stages. Examining previous dental work though gives your dentist the opportunity to identify concerns before they become more complicated or require more complex treatment.

If you do notice pain, sensitivity, a change in your bite or a restoration that feels loose, don’t wait for your next routine appointment. Contact our Ipswich dentists as soon as possible to arrange to have it checked.

How to help your teeth restorations last longer

Good daily oral care should make a significant difference, whether your teeth have fillings, crowns, bridges or no dental work at all. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, taking particular care around the edges of restorations where plaque can collect. Cleaning between your teeth is important too, using interdental brushes or floss as appropriate. If you have a bridge or implant-supported restoration, your dentist or hygienist can show you how best to clean around it. Try to avoid biting down on very hard objects, such as ice, and be aware that grinding or clenching your teeth can put considerable strain on them and any restorations. If you suspect that you grind your teeth while you sleep, please mention it at your next appointment.

If you have missed a check up appointment or you would like to bring one forward due to any issues you are having, please contact the receptionists at our Ipswich based practice and they will arrange a suitable appointment for you. You can do this by calling the Foxhall Dental Practice today on 01473 258396.