Secondary caries / Recurrent caries

SECONDARY CARIES 

Secondary caries, otherwise known as recurrent caries (cavities) is tooth decay occurring underneath/surrounding existing dental restorations such as dental fillings, crowns or onlays. 

CAUSES :-

               These recurrent cavities can be a result of poor oral hygiene habits, or can be caused by a microscopic access or hole in the dental restoration, allowing acids and bacteria to creep in. And unfortunately, these microscopic pathways cannot be cleaned using standard oral hygiene practices because they are so tiny and inaccessible.The cariogenic bacteria in the saliva will grow when the environment of micro cracks is appropriate, thereby producing secondary caries.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS :

1.Blackish discolouration of tooth around the filling 

              Amalgam(silver) filling                              Secondary caries

             

         Composite (tooth coloured) filling                 Secondary caries  

              

   

2.Sensitivity                                                                   3.Pain

                                                                                   

              

4.Broken filling/tooth fragment                                5.Food lodgement

                 

TREATMENT:

1.RE-RESTORATION (Re-filling):- 

Once a secondary cavity has been detected via radiographic (X-ray) evidence, or with a dental explorer (probe), laser or visual examination, then it’s crucial to proceed with treatment before the problem progresses even further.

The secondary tooth decay must be removed and the current failed filling or restoration must be replaced.

2.ROOT CANAL TREATMENT :-

       Root canal treatment is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent re-infection of the tooth and save the natural tooth. When one undergoes a root canal, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed.

PREVENTION:-

1.Simply brushing twice daily (for two full minutes), as well as flossing once daily will help to keep your smile sufficiently clean, reducing your risk of secondary (and regular) tooth decay.

2. Regular check up with your dentist twice a year, or when required. 

3.This visit will involve a thorough cleaning (scaling) from the hygienist to remove plaque from the surfaces of the teeth, as well as a check-up/examination by the dentist to ensure that your current filling(s)/restorations and everything else are in great shape.

  

                      

      Rootz Dental Care and Implant Center, 

                                            No:2/2, First Floor, Sakthi Nagar,

                                            Rajiv Gandhi Salai, Thuraipakkam,

                                            Chennai - 600 097,

                                            Phone :- 9786688755,044-49504825

                                                     Email :- rootzdentalcare@gmail.com