When Filling Failure Is Linked to Lifestyle
Dental fillings, whether it’s silver amalgam, ceramics, or the newer composite resins, have been proved to last many years. Their durability and strength, as well as aesthetics and ease of preparation for some, make them very popular options in restorative dentistry. When they fail, which does happen, it is not difficult to have replacements.
But why do they fail in the first place? There are cases that last a lifetime. Was it the wrong filling material? Or did the dentist not do a good preparation?
A team of researchers from Brazil and the US think they have the answer. They were able to access a large repository of dental records from a Pittsburgh dental school in which contained information on patient fillings and rates of failure up to five years after the filling procedure. The records also show the lifestyle profile of individual patients.
Now within two years of the dental procedure, the team found that fillings were starting to fail. The failure rate was higher in those who were alcohol drinkers, still higher in those who smoke. They also found the enzyme – matrix metalloproteinase (MMP2), found in teeth and is of a genetic component, which was linked to increased filling failure. The researchers think that MMP2 might be degrading the bond between the filling and the tooth surface. This is not confirmatory as further investigation is needed. However, the personal factors aforementioned seem to influence filling failure and it has nothing to do with filling type.
This study can help the profession better understand why and which individual is more susceptible to dental disease, as caries. Dentists can better variate their treatment options, educate their patients, and encourage follow-through with susceptible patients.
As far as the aforementioned genetic component of those teeth at risk due to the enzyme MMP2, the team of researchers are looking to the future to be able to personalize dental treatments and enhance treatment outcomes.
Lifestyle Change for Long-Lasting Fillings
It is part and parcel of any treatment regimen we offer patients here at Lynnwood Song Dental to educate and inform, so that our patients get the most of our professional know-how. Lifestyle change is one of those important recommendations we make if need be, for treatment success.
