Research into Filling Failure

We work hard to stay up-to-date on new medical research at the Upper East Side dental office of Dr. Joseph Dallessandro. Recently, scientists examined data on people who had suffered from premature filling failures to look for common features, and they were surprised by what they found.

The bonding used to secure dental fillings has an expected lifespan of ten years, but the people in the study required replacements after five years, at most. The researchers found that they were likelier than people with successful fillings to be smokers or to use alcohol. They also found a strong correlation between filling failure and a particular DNA sequence. The possibility that people could be more predisposed toward filling failure because of their genetics merits further investigation, but in the meantime, people whose relatives have struggled with poor oral health should be especially vigilant about maintaining their regular check-ups.

Another major finding was that resin bonding is just as successful as amalgam fillings. This is significant because resin is the same color as natural teeth and lacks mercury, making it a more popular option. Knowing that it is not prone to higher failure rates will contribute to its increasing popularity.

Joseph S. Dallessandro, DDS, and Jiah Choi, DDS, operate at 360 E 72nd St, Ste B, New York, New York, 10021. To set up an appointment, call 212-988-1089, or visit Joseph Dallessandro DDS and fill out a contact sheet.