First in a series about oral health.
BY DR. JUAN ALVAREZ
Oral Health is becoming increasingly important as we’ve seen a worrying rise in cavities and gum disease over the past 20 years. Today, in Mexico and many other countries, approximately 90% of people experience cavities, and 85% deal with gum disease.
It’s common for patients to visit the office with a crown or another dental restoration in their hand, surprised and confused as to why it has come loose. Upon examination, we often discover cavities around the affected area or deterioration of restorations due to long-term wear. Factors such as grinding and clenching only add to the stress on dental work, leading to failure.
Despite advances in modern dentistry—such as state-of-the-art materials, precise bonding techniques, and 3D scanning technology for highly accurate restoration fitting—these innovations must still contend with challenges like anxiety-induced habits and neglect.
Common Causes of Gaps in Dental Restorations
Gaps in dental work can occur for several reasons, including:
1. Wear and Tear: Over time, restorations like fillings, crowns, or bridges can weaken and create gaps.
2. Poor Fit: Improperly fitted restorations can lead to space between the tooth and the restoration.
3. Tooth Movement: Teeth can shift due to orthodontic treatment, gum disease, or other factors.
4. Decay or Erosion: New cavities or acid erosion around the restoration can cause gaps to form.
Solutions for Dental Gaps
Addressing gaps often involves:
1. Repair or Replacement: Fixing or replacing faulty restorations.
2. Bonding: Filling small gaps with tooth-colored material.
3. Veneers or Crowns: Adding a protective layer or new crown to cover the gap.
4. Orthodontic Treatment: Correcting underlying tooth alignment issues.
If you notice gaps in your dental restorations, consult your dentist for personalized recommendations.
Types of Gaps and Their Effects
There are several types of gaps:
- Marginal Gaps: Between the restoration and the tooth.
- Occlusal Gaps: Between the restoration and the opposing tooth.
-Interproximal Gaps: Between the restoration and adjacent teeth.
These gaps can lead to:
- Sensitivity.
- Food trapping, increasing the risk of decay or erosion.
- Bite problems.
- Aesthetic concerns.
Importance of Regular Check-Ups
To detect and address these issues early, we recommend regular dental check-ups. X-rays are essential for making informed clinical decisions, and intraoral photography provides a clear view of gaps and other concerns.
For more information, visit www.marinadental.com.mx or contact us on WhatsApp at +52 551 473 3683. Your oral health matters—to you, to us, to everyone.
Coming soon: Clenching and Grinding.
