Were you surprised to learn at your regular dental checkup that you required additional procedures? Perhaps the doctor recommended that you need to have one or more of your existing fillings replaced. If the tooth doesn't hurt, why would we suggest replacing the filing? Sometimes dental problems do not have painful symptoms.

    Dental fillings are designed to last many years, but our teeth are under constant stress. Chewing, clenching, grinding and temperature changes put tremendous force on fillings and may cause them to crack, chip, fall out or simply wear away over time.

    Also, fillings can eventually pull away from surrounding tooth enamel to leave small spaces between the tooth and the filling. Bacteria can sneak in around the edges of the filling and cause decay, which can grow into the dental pulp inside the tooth and result in pain, discomfort and the need for further dental work. 

    The key to avoiding unnecessary discomfort is to try staying one step ahead of any loose or worn fillings by replacing them before they become a painful problem - a preemptive and relatively simple procedure that will be more economical and comfortable for you in the long run.