Question: I have several white fillings in between my front teeth and where the enamel meets the gum line. I am frequently needing to replace them due to ugly brown stains around the edges, decay or they just simply fall out. Is this normal?
- D.F. in Malden, MA
Answer: Adhesive dentistry has come a long way since the ’80s when it truly came into vogue. Clinicians have been able to chemically bond tooth-colored composites to existing tooth structure, sparing patients from the more extensive drilling required for the older, unsightly, amalgam (silver) fillings. New products have arrived to increase the longevity of these restorations. Now there are a variety of surface sealers available that seal the gaps between the filling material and the adjacent enamel while releasing fluoride to prevent recurrent decay and staining. Plus, it will improve the luster on cosmetic bonding procedures on your front teeth.
- D.F. in Malden, MA
Answer: Adhesive dentistry has come a long way since the ’80s when it truly came into vogue. Clinicians have been able to chemically bond tooth-colored composites to existing tooth structure, sparing patients from the more extensive drilling required for the older, unsightly, amalgam (silver) fillings. New products have arrived to increase the longevity of these restorations. Now there are a variety of surface sealers available that seal the gaps between the filling material and the adjacent enamel while releasing fluoride to prevent recurrent decay and staining. Plus, it will improve the luster on cosmetic bonding procedures on your front teeth.
Dr. Wu practices Advanced Restorative Dentistry in Malden, Massachusetts. She is an extramural faculty member of the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, and a columnist in the Malden Observer Newspaper. Dr. Wu was awarded America's Top Dentists in 2009 and 2010 by the Consumer's Research Council of America. Dr. Wu can be reached at diana.pwudmd@verizon.net (781) 322-0131, or by visiting www.mymaldendentist.com
