May 19, 2005 • ISSUE 30 / VOLUME 1

Worn-out fillings may lead to more problems

Prevent further decay by replacing damaged fillings

Regular dental visits can detect problems with fillings.

Many people don't worry about their teeth until a problem arises and they have a toothache. But dental health should never be taken for granted and preventive dental care can help you avoid pain.

Unless you're one of the fortunate few, most folks have a filling or two, and regular dental visits can make sure they're in good shape.

"Fillings are subject to constant stress from chewing, clenching and grinding, causing them to eventually wear away, chip, crack or fall out," says Dr. Jonathan C. Okabe, of Okabe Dental Arts. "A dental filling may last several years before it needs replacing, but if you wait until it actually cracks or falls out, it may be too late."

Okabe says a filling can wear away at the edges or pull away from the tooth, allowing bacteria to enter and cause decay around the filling's edges.

"Once the decay starts, no amount of brushing or flossing will remove the decay," explains Okabe. "Often the damage is not seen because there are no symptoms until the decay reaches the nerve of the tooth, resulting in a very painful toothache."

Regular dental examinations can detect problems with existing fillings or crowns, preventing more serious consequences. Worn fillings should be replaced promptly. These days, many people opt for tooth-colored fillings to replace those old, unsightly "silver" fillings that have become blackened and cracked.

Okabe Dental Arts offers the most advanced technology and the highest-quality materials available. It is located at 1221 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 620, at the corner of Pensacola and Kapiolani. For more information, or to make an appointment, call 596-0837.