Restorations may wear out and deteriorate over time, particularly as a result of regular chewing and/or grinding and clenching of teeth.

Few symptoms are related to the deterioration of restorations such as fillings and crowns. However, your dentist will be able to notice and correct the weaknesses in your restorations during the biennial examination.

The causes of the deterioration of restorations are multiple:

• It is possible that the sealant deposited between the restoration and the tooth enamel may weaken over time, resulting in the formation of a space where food debris can be stored. This accumulation can aggravate the deterioration of the restoration;
• The normal pressure exerted during chewing, sometimes combined with a habit of clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism), can also contribute to altering restorations;
• Poor occlusion of the teeth (poor distribution of forces between the teeth);
• Inadequate repair of a tooth (defective filling or wrong choice of material);
• Finally, time is a potential factor in the wear and tear of restorations.

• If the tooth is in good condition, a new restoration is performed;
• If a cavity has developed on the tooth or part of it is fractured, it is preferable to proceed, first, with a root canal treatment and, second, with a crown.

Damaged restorations can promote the development of dental caries, as food residues can infiltrate between the tooth and the restoration, causing bacteria to proliferate. Complications can then occur if the situation is not quickly managed: the progression from cavities to dental pulp, the formation of an abscess, and, ultimately, the damage to the alveolar bone.

• The best way to prevent deterioration of fillings and other restorations is to maintain good oral hygiene measures, including brushing 2 to 3 times a day, flossing and, if necessary, interdental brushes;
• It is also essential to visit the dentist once or twice a year to receive a complete cleaning and examination of the dentition, including monitoring the condition of the restorations.