Do Filled Teeth Decay?
One of the first applications that comes to mind when it comes to dental treatment is filling. When tooth decay is detected, the damaged area is cleaned and the gap is closed with a suitable filling material. Many people think that after this procedure, that tooth is now “saved” and will never have problems again. Unfortunately, this is a very common but misleading belief. Because a filling does not completely “heal” the tooth, it only stops the progression of the damage and restores the functionality of the tooth.
So, can a tooth with a filling really decay again? The short answer is: Yes, it can. However, there are many factors behind this situation and often small details that are neglected can lead to big problems. Factors such as microscopic gaps that form over time at the edges of the filling, insufficient attention to oral hygiene, and neglecting regular dentist check-ups can cause a tooth with a filling to decay again.
What is a Filling and Why is it Done?
Dental filling is one of the most common and effective applications in protecting oral health. Sugary foods that we are unknowingly exposed to in our daily lives, inadequate oral hygiene and neglected dentist check-ups lead to tooth decay over time. When decay begins to destroy the hard tissues of the tooth, the filling process comes into play to stop this damage and save the tooth.
So what exactly is a filling? To summarize briefly, dental filling is the process of cleaning the tooth tissue damaged by decay and filling the resulting space with special filling materials. Thanks to this application, both the natural structure of the tooth is preserved and it is ensured that it performs its basic functions such as chewing healthily.
There are also many different types of fillings used today. One of the most well-known types is amalgam fillings, commonly known as “silver fillings”. They are highly durable, but are not preferred especially in front teeth due to aesthetic concerns. Composite fillings (white fillings) are an ideal option for those who want a more natural and aesthetic appearance. They are frequently used especially in front teeth because their color matches the natural teeth. While glass ionomer fillings are mostly preferred in baby teeth or areas close to the gums, porcelain fillings stand out with their aesthetics and longevity.
The main purpose of dental fillings is to stop the progression of decay, strengthen the structure of the tooth and eliminate problems such as pain and sensitivity that reduce the person’s quality of life. However, it is important to remember an important point here: Having a filling does not mean that the tooth is “under warranty” anymore. Many people think that a filled tooth will never decay again, but the truth is not that simple. Because a filling only treats the existing decay; it does not provide immunity against possible problems in the future.
Why Does a Filled Tooth Decay Again?
Many people who have a filling believe that the tooth will no longer cause problems. However, the truth is that teeth with fillings can decay just like other healthy teeth. Moreover, in some cases, these decays can be more unnoticeable than the first decay. But why? Here are the main factors that can cause a filled tooth to decay again:
Micro Leakages Between Filling and Tooth Over Time
A filling made on a tooth initially creates a solid integrity. However, over time, especially due to chewing pressure and thermal changes (hot-cold foods), microscopic gaps can form between the filling and the natural tooth tissue. These gaps become a passage for bacteria to leak. Bacteria that enter can settle under the filling and start decay again. Fillings made years ago in particular carry a higher risk in this respect.
Inadequate Oral Hygiene
Skipping brushing your teeth because you have a filling is a big mistake. Just because a tooth has been cleaned of decay and filled does not mean that it will not decay again. When oral hygiene is not taken care of, the tooth enamel around the filling weakens over time. Not brushing your teeth at least twice a day, not using dental floss, and neglecting regular dentist check-ups opens the door to decay that threatens not only teeth with fillings but all teeth.
Excessive Consumption of Sugary and Acidic Foods
Our eating habits directly affect our dental health. Frequently consuming sugary snacks and consuming carbonated and acidic beverages increases the acidity in the mouth, which erodes tooth enamel. This can cause weak areas to form, especially around the edges of dental fillings, and new cavities to develop around the filling.
Filling Wearing or Breaking Over Time
Like any medical intervention, fillings are not lifelong. Fillings that are constantly exposed to pressure in daily use can wear out over the years, their edges can crack, or they can move slightly. Such structural deteriorations create areas where bacteria can settle and pave the way for the formation of new cavities.
Teeth Clenching and Grinding (Bruxism)
You may be clenching or grinding your teeth at night without realizing it. This habit not only causes jaw pain, but also causes micro cracks on the surface of your teeth. Fillings are also negatively affected by this pressure; they can wear out, open up from the edges, or fall out over time. These small cracks that form turn into a hiding place for bacteria.
How to Understand Decay Under a Filling?
When a tooth with a filling has a new cavity, it can sometimes be difficult to understand. However, the body often warns us with some signals. The important thing is not to ignore these signs and take action in time. So, how can we understand that there is a cavity under a filling? Here are some signs to watch out for:
Increased Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Foods
If a hot coffee or cold water that you used to drink comfortably suddenly starts to cause pain in your tooth, this may be a sign of a cavity under the filling. This type of sensitivity may indicate a problem that begins in areas close to the nerve.
Feeling of Pain When Consuming Sweets
If you feel discomfort in a certain tooth, especially when you consume sugary foods, this is a very typical sign of decay. Bacteria that accumulate on the edge or under the tooth filling can cause this type of sensitivity.
Pain or Throbbing in the Area of the Filling
A sudden onset or intermittent pain, especially if it is throbbing, is a sign that the decay may be advanced. This type of pain can be relieved not only by replacing the filling but also in some cases by root canal treatment.
Swelling and Redness in the Gum
If you notice swelling, tenderness or redness in the gum around the tooth that has been filled, this could be a sign of an underlying infection. These types of gum reactions are often triggered by the progression of decay.
Dislodging or Falling Out of Filling
If a dental filling has started to loosen or has completely fallen out, this indicates that the structure underneath the filling has deteriorated and possibly a cavity has formed. In such a case, you should see your dentist without delay.
Does a Filled Tooth Decay?
Yes, a filled tooth can decay again. A dental filling is a repair aimed at cleaning the existing decay and preserving the function of the tooth; however, this process does not mean that the tooth will be completely protected against decay in the future. Over time, microscopic leaks may occur at the edges of the filling, and if oral hygiene is not sufficiently taken care of, bacterial accumulation can lead to decay again.
In addition, wear and tear or fractures in the structure of the filling can pave the way for the development of new decay. Therefore, it should not be forgotten that filled teeth also require regular maintenance and control.
