Tooth decay is caused by a build-up of acid in the mouth
"Having a filling can increase the risk of tooth decay in neighbouring teeth," reports The Times. Researchers found evidence that, in some cases, fillings were more of a stop-gap than a cure for tooth decay – and could even actually contribute to the problem.
This headline was prompted by a new study carried out by researchers in Norway, which assessed whether having fillings increases the risk of decay in the surrounding teeth. The study included more than 700 people who needed fillings, monitoring the health of the neighbouring teeth for almost five years.
It found that almost 40% of healthy neighbouring teeth remained decay-free, but around 60% of people experienced decay of the enamel (the hard surface of a tooth) or dentine (the tissue found inside a tooth).
For those who already had decay of the enamel on neighbouring teeth at the start of the study, more than 40% saw decay progress into the dentine. Both patient and dentist-related factors influenced the progression of decay in teeth near to a newly-placed filling, with poor dental hygiene being a key factor.
The results suggest that unless you address the underlying causes that led to the need to have a filling in the first place, their use could be counterproductive.
To reduce your risk of tooth decay, it is important to brush your teeth twice a day, floss at least once a day, use a fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing, and limit how much sugary food and drinks you have.
Where did the story come from?
The study was carried out by researchers from the Nordic Institute of Dental Materials and the University of Oslo, and was funded by the Norwegian Directorate of Health. It was published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Dentistry.
The findings have been presented accurately by the UK media. However, most of the reporting does not explain that there is no certainty that any of the risk factors observed are the cause of tooth decay.
The Daily Telegraph pointed out that while these findings might cause concern, fillings are currently the best solution we have for tooth decay. Left untreated, tooth decay leads to further problems, such as cavities (holes in the teeth), gum disease or dental abscesses (collections of pus at the end of the teeth or in the gums). The paper also highlights the importance of taking care of your teeth and reducing sugar consumption to minimise risk.
What kind of research was this?
This longitudinal study aimed to identify risk factors for the development of decay on teeth next to new fillings. This was part of a larger study assessing the longevity of fillings.
While this is a good way of observing what happens over a period of time, this design is unable to prove cause and effect.
What did the research involve?
A sample of participants from the main study was chosen to investigate the condition of teeth in contact with fillings.
Participants were aged 17 or over, had neighbouring teeth in contact with fillings, and the teeth:
were permanent
were initially sound or had decay confined to enamel
had an observation time of at least four years
had an endpoint score available (a rating of how successful the filling was in treating tooth decay)
For those with multiple fillings, only one neighbouring tooth was selected at random in each participant.
Information was collected on patient-related variables, including:
age
sex
oral hygiene
decay
Tooth-related variables included:
tooth type
position in jaw
mouth side
filling details
The dentist's age and use of a protective shield were recorded. Dentists were required to record the participants' oral hygiene as good, medium or poor.
Statistical analyses were performed for teeth in good condition, and those with decay, to assess the development and progression of the decay.
What were the basic results?
The 750 participants in the study were followed for an average period of 4.9 years. The mean age of the parti
About Unknown
0 yorum:
Post a Comment