Do you find yourself dealing with recurrent cavities despite your best efforts? You're not alone. Many people struggle with this frustrating issue. The good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent further cavities and keep your smile healthy.
What are Recurrent Cavities?
Recurrent cavities are cavities that develop in the same tooth or around an existing filling. They can occur for various reasons, including:
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Incomplete removal of decay: Sometimes, during a filling procedure, all the decayed tooth material may not be removed. This leaves behind bacteria that can continue to eat away at the tooth, leading to a new cavity.
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Poor oral hygiene: Even after a filling, proper brushing and flossing are still essential to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause cavities.
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Diet: A diet high in sugary and acidic foods and drinks can increase the risk of cavities, even around fillings.
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Existing fillings: Older fillings can wear down or chip, allowing bacteria to enter and cause new decay.
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Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as dry mouth or acid reflux, can increase the risk of cavities.
Addressing Recurrent Cavities
If you experience recurrent cavities, it's important to see your dentist as soon as possible. They will examine your teeth and determine the cause of the problem. Depending on the severity of the decay, your dentist may recommend one of the following:
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A new filling: If the decay is small, a new filling may be all that's needed.
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A crown: If the decay is more extensive, a crown may be necessary to protect the tooth.
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Root canal: In severe cases, the pulp of the tooth may become infected, requiring a root canal.
Preventing Recurrent Cavities
The best way to deal with recurrent cavities is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips:
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Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
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Visit your dentist regularly: Regular checkups and cleanings can help identify and treat cavities early.
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Maintain a healthy diet: Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
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Use fluoride products: Consider using fluoride mouthwash or gels to strengthen your teeth.
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Ask about dental sealants: These thin coatings can protect your teeth from decay.
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Address underlying medical conditions: If you have a medical condition that increases your risk of cavities, work with your doctor to manage it effectively.
Restoration Dentistry: Your Partner in Preventing Cavities
By following these tips and working closely with your dentist, you can significantly reduce your risk of recurrent cavities and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Remember, restoration dentistry, including fillings, crowns, and root canals, is not just about fixing existing problems. It's also about prevention and keeping your natural teeth healthy for years to come.
If you have any questions or concerns about recurrent cavities, please don't hesitate to talk to your dentist.
Boones Landing Dental Center 30485 SW Boones Ferry Rd, Suite 203 Wilsonville, OR 97070
Dentist Wilsonville, OR • About Boones Landing Dental Center Looking for a new family dentist Wilsonville? Come to Boones Landing Dental Center. Healthy smiles for healthy families start with a professional family dentistry. Boones Landing Dental Center, 30485 SW Boones Ferry Road, Suite 203, Wilsonville, OR 97070-7845 / (503) 601-0610 / boonedmd.com / 11/14/2025 / Tags: about us,dentist wilsonville,dentist wilsonville or
Do you find yourself dealing with recurrent cavities despite your best efforts? You're not alone. Many people struggle with this frustrating issue. The good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent further cavities and keep your smile healthy.