Learn About Food Traps and Treatment Options
Many people have experienced a food trap at some point in their life. It is that annoying contact between two teeth that seems to always get food stuck in it from eating, especially meat and vegetables. It can be a pain to try and remove the impaction from the contact. A food trap can occur for several reasons:
– 2 teeth that do not form a tight enough contact can be due to shifting teeth
– Tooth chips, fractures or decay
– Recession or gum loss in between teeth
– Improper contact on a dental filling or dental crown
How to Fix a Food Trap
There are several options for fixing a food trap contact, mainly depending on the cause of the food trap. Talk to your emergency dentist in Ajax about what option is best for you.
Dental Fillings
Sometimes a filling/ fillings can be used to close up the loose contact between two teeth. This is one of the best options if the food trap is caused by a natural loose contact, decay or a chip/fracture. A filling can be placed on either 1 or both teeth that form the contact, on the in-between surfaces. By placing the fillings, your dentist can achieve a perfectly closed contact that you will still be able to floss at home.
Dental Crown
Using a dental crown to fill a food trap gap is the most forward and most invasive method. A dental crown would be recommended for food traps caused by large areas of decay, large fractures/chips or in visible areas where aesthetics is a factor. Just like with fillings to close a space, your dentist will suggest either 1 or both of the teeth to be crowned.
Adequate Cleaning
The third option is not to proceed with any dental work, but to keep the area as clean as possible daily. This will not be the recommendation if decay or a fracture/chip causes the food trap. This involves using the right tools at home to keep the area clean. Brushing, flossing and interdental brushes are recommended. Also, it is essential to maintain regular dental cleanings to keep the area clean and check the status of the food trap.
If you believe you have a food trap and are interested in options, or have any questions about food traps, we encourage you to contact our dentist near you today to schedule an appointment.