Dental Problems•3 min read

Why Do Old Fillings Fail Unnoticed?

The Problem: The Leaky Seal

You have a filling from ten years ago. It looks fine to you. But underneath, the seal has broken. Bacteria are sneaking in through microscopic gaps, causing a new cavity *under* the old filling. You don't know it until the tooth breaks.

Why This Is Frustrating

You thought that tooth was 'fixed.' It feels unfair to have to pay to fix the same tooth again. It feels like a never-ending cycle of maintenance. You worry that every time a dentist touches a tooth, it just gets closer to needing a crown.

The Simple Truth: Nothing Lasts Forever

Dental materials are tough, but they aren't permanent. Chewing puts immense stress on fillings. Over time, they pull away from the tooth, crack, or wear down. A failing filling is a trap for bacteria, hiding decay where your toothbrush can't reach.

What Should Happen Instead

You should inspect your 'hardware' regularly. Just like you check the tires on your car, you need to check the margins of your fillings. Catching a leak early means you can often just replace the filling, rather than needing a root canal.

How DentaSmart Helps

DentaSmart looks for the breakdown. Our AI analyzes the edges of your existing restorations, looking for shadowing or discoloration that suggests a leak. We help you stay ahead of failing dental work so you can plan for replacements before they turn into emergencies.

More insights to help you understand your oral health.

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Why Do Cavities Go Undetected Too Long?

You brush, you floss, and your teeth feel fine. Then, at your checkup, the dentist says you have three cavities. You're shocked. 'But nothing hurts!' you say. It feels like they're making it up.

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Why Does Gum Disease Start Silently?

Your gums bleed a little when you floss. You think, 'I just brushed too hard.' But that pink in the sink is often the only sign of early gum disease (gingivitis). Because it doesn't hurt, it's easy to ignore until your teeth start to feel loose.

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Why Are Cracks and Fractures Missed?

You bite down on an almond and feel a sharp zap. But when you look in the mirror, the tooth looks fine. You ignore it. Months later, the tooth splits in half. Cracks are often invisible to the naked eye but can be catastrophic for the tooth.