While you may be proud that your 15-year-old amalgam fillings are still in place, it may not be something you want to brag about.
According to your East Greenbush dentist, old fillings can hide other issues that could be problematic for your mouth and the rest of your body.
The Link Between Your Mouth and Your Body
You’ve probably read or heard that your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body. That means people with healthy mouths will probably be less likely to suffer from disease.
Research shows that gum disease is prevalent in people with heart disease and with people who have suffered a stroke. Alzheimer’s patients have a higher percentage of gum disease than those who don’t as well.
Medical experts believe that the connection is inflammation. Because gum disease allows bacteria to flow through the gums into the blood stream, it attaches itself to the blood vessels causing plaque to form. This often leads to hardening of the arteries and heart attack.
Old amalgam fillings are often cracked and chipped and will frequently leak. If this is happening in your mouth, you are running the risk of more than tooth decay.
Have Your Fillings Checked Often
Dr. J. Craig Alexander recommends twice-yearly checkups for teeth and gums. During each checkup, your dentist in East Greenbush will use an intra oral camera to check for decay under your old amalgam fillings. Unfortunately, conventional x-rays will not pick up any abnormalities in an x-ray.
If problems are detected under your old amalgam fillings, Dr. Alexander will remove the filling and replace it with the material of your choice. However, because old amalgam fillings require more drilling, the tooth may need a crown for additional strength. Sadly, if there is too much decay the tooth may have to go.
Make an Appointment for a Dental Checkup in East Greenbush
The only way to check for decay under old amalgam fillings is to schedule an appointment with your dentist in East Greenbush. Call and schedule your dental checkup with Dr. J. Craig Alexander today.