– A

Dear A:

Erosion at the gum line is common but the important thing is to understand that this is a visible sign of invisible mouth acidity.

Acidity may be from diet, drinks or it can be from the saliva in your own mouth.

If you test your saliva pH in the morning on waking – you can get an idea as to whether or not you have acidic saliva.

Treatment for acidic saliva is to try and raise the mineral content of your body – good nutrition ( lots of green foods like broccoli etc) vitamin D, perhaps consider a good vitamin supplement and probiotics. You have to see acidic salivary pH as a sign your body needs help – this is more than about your teeth!

Xylitol and my mouth rinse program will stop sensitivity and also stop gum recession in these areas.

The system probably cannot rebuild the tooth completely back in this area – and the question is ” does this matter?”

I cannot tell how deep these grooves have become.

If food is constantly trapped in these grooves – then a filling may be a good idea.

If they stay clean – and are not too deep – “what is the benefit of a filling”?

One problem with fillings at this location is that it is a difficult procedure to make a filling ‘stick” here.

The materials used are moisture sensitive. In order to do a good filling, the gum may need to be pushed back away from the area and this is not a really great thing to do for the gums.

Because so many fillings fall out – your dentist may recommend making some cuts into the tooth – to lock the filling in place.

This brings up the other problem. This is a very sensitive area (since it is close to the nerve in the center of the tooth) and cutting or putting acids on the tooth may upset the nerve and can even kill the tooth.

Last problem to consider: ask if the material being used contains Bisphemol A.

This is a hormone-mimicking product – and you may want to avoid this for your general health.

In other words: I would not get these filled without a good reason.

If they are safe and can remain without fillings – I personally believe this would be my choice.

I think you should discuss your choices with your dentist – armed with the questions I have raised.

Best Wishes,

Ellie

Ellie Phillips DDS
http://www.ZelliesCleanWhiteTeeth.com
Solutions for Oral Health!
author, Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye