What Is Secondary Dental Tooth Decay?
Secondary dental decay can occur around defective or broken down fillings; if the overall dental risk is high for dental decay. For example if a filling become schipped or rough, it may accumulate more plaque and can then become a risk factor for secondary dental tooth decay.
Risk Factors For Secondary Dental Tooth Decay:
- Chipped Fillings
- Rough Fillings
- Defective Fillings
- High Dental Risk for Tooth Decay
Visual Signs of Secondary Dental Tooth Decay
- Discoloration is but one sign of dental tooth decay -> A dark black or soft brown lesion
- Softening of the tooth structure, including disintegration and eventually cavity formation.
- Fractures, Chips, Cracks, Rough Edges
How Is Secondary Dental Tooth Decay Treated?
The first approach would be a conservative course of treatment. Isolating risk factors and trying to stop further progression of the lesion. This often involves the dentist repairing of the defect filling(s) or polishing the defective filling(s). Often considering increasing prevention to include remineralisation of the tooth structure will be discussed as well as oral hygiene. This would include either a stronger fluoridated tooth-paste, or a remineralizing cream such as Tooth Mousse.
If you wish for more information on Secondary Dental Decay or have any concerns please do not hesitate to contact Skygate Dental today on (07) 3114 1199 or 0406 579 197.