decay under fillings

what are the symptoms of decay under fillings?

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

It can vary from case to case but it could be no pain due to the nerve dying, there could be slight to severe sensitivity or there could be chronic pain.  It could also abscess and get a swelling, bad taste from pus draining out, it could spread and get other symptoms as well.

[sherisheri]

can the tooth be saved? or extraction is the only solution?

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

Depends on how much solid healthy tooth structure is left after removal of the decay and filling.  

[sherisheri]

my fillings have started to show stains. its been 4 years since i had those fillings And in one of my teeth it almost seem that cavities have developed around the teeth while others show discoloring..do you think its time to replace them?? my dentist did not seem to worry bout them...an is replacing fillings a painful process??

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

No, it shouldn't be painful since you'll be numb.  But any treatment on a tooth can result in more problems also so the need for the procedure should be weighed in along with the expected potential benefits and risks.  You may want to ask your dentist to see if it should be done and what are the risks/benefits of doing versus not doing it.

[sherisheri]

do you think x-rays need to  be done on fillings?

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

After they're filled?  Usually no.  Before getting them redone, yes, most definitely.