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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Composite Fillings in Port Ryerse
Composite fillings repair decay with tooth-coloured resin. Port Ryerse patients can learn when they suit, how they are placed and how long they last in Port Dover.
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Caring for Port Ryerse patients at our Port Dover office
Every dental service for Port RyerseTooth-coloured repair
A composite filling rebuilds the tooth in layers.
Composite resin is a tooth-coloured material bonded directly to the tooth. It is commonly used to repair cavities, small fractures and worn areas. Because it bonds to enamel and dentin, the dentist can often remove less healthy tooth structure than with some older materials. Its colour can be matched closely to the surrounding teeth.
People in Port Ryerse who need a filling can have it assessed and placed at our Port Dover office. The dentist will explain whether composite suits the size and location of the problem, or whether a different restoration would be more durable for that tooth.
When composite fits
Size and location both influence the choice.
Cavities and small repairs
Composite works well for small to moderate cavities on front and back teeth, chipped edges and areas worn near the gum line. It is also used to replace some older fillings. The dentist considers how much tooth remains, how hard you bite and whether the area can be kept dry while the material is placed.
When something stronger is advised
Very large cavities, teeth with cracks running through them or teeth that carry heavy biting force may be better served by an inlay, onlay or crown. If you grind your teeth, the dentist may discuss protecting new fillings with a guard. Ask about the pros and cons of each option before deciding.
The procedure
Placement is careful and usually done in one visit.
Preparing the tooth
The area is usually numbed with local anaesthetic. Decay or old filling material is removed, and the tooth is cleaned. A bonding agent is applied to help the resin adhere. Keeping the tooth dry is important, so cotton rolls, suction or a small rubber sheet may be used around the area.
Layering and shaping
Composite is placed in layers, with each layer hardened by a curing light. The dentist then shapes the filling to match your bite and natural tooth contours, checks contact with neighbouring teeth and polishes the surface. You will be asked to bite on thin paper to confirm the filling is not too high.
Afterwards
Most people return to normal routines quickly.
The first day or two
If anaesthetic was used, wait until numbness fades before eating to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. Composite is hardened before you leave, so you can chew once feeling returns. Mild sensitivity to cold or biting pressure is fairly common for a short time, especially after deeper fillings.
When to call the office
Contact the office if your bite feels uneven, sensitivity gets worse instead of better, pain lingers after hot or cold or you notice a rough edge catching floss. A high spot can often be adjusted quickly. Persistent pain may need further assessment to rule out nerve irritation.
Making it last
Fillings last longer with good daily care.
Daily care
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth to prevent new decay around the edges of the filling. Regular checkups and cleanings allow the dentist to look for early wear or leakage. Composite can stain slightly over time with coffee, tea or tobacco, though polishing may help.
Habits that shorten lifespan
Chewing ice, biting fingernails, opening packages with your teeth and night-time grinding all place extra stress on fillings. Large composites may wear faster than some other materials. The dentist will monitor them at checkups and recommend repair or replacement if problems develop.
Planning your appointment
Booking a filling from Port Ryerse.
Call our Port Dover office to arrange an exam or filling appointment. Let the team know if a tooth is painful, sensitive or broken so they can plan an appropriate amount of time.
Mention any allergies or reactions to dental materials or anaesthetic you have had in the past.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Composite filling questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
How long do composite fillings last?
Lifespan varies with the size of the filling, its location, your bite and hygiene. Many last for years. The dentist will check them at each exam and recommend repair if wear, leakage or new decay develops around the edges.
Are composite fillings safe?
Composite resins are widely used and considered safe for most people. If you have a known allergy to certain dental materials, tell the dentist so an alternative can be discussed.
Can old metal fillings be replaced with composite?
Sometimes. Replacing a filling that is still sound is not always necessary. If an old filling is cracked, leaking or has decay around it, composite may be one option. The dentist will discuss whether replacement is advisable.
Why is my tooth sensitive after a filling?
Some sensitivity is common, especially with deeper fillings, and usually eases over days to weeks. A high bite can also cause discomfort. If sensitivity worsens or does not improve, contact the office for a check.
Do composite fillings stain?
Composite can pick up some surface staining over time, particularly from coffee, tea, red wine or smoking. Polishing at hygiene visits may help. Very stained fillings can be replaced if appearance is a concern.
Other restorations to consider
General Dentistry →Inlays and Onlays →
Inlays and onlays restore back teeth that need more than a filling but less than a crown. Port Ryerse patients can explore this option at our Port Dover office.
Replacement of Old or Stained Fillings →
Dark, worn or leaking fillings can sometimes be replaced with tooth-coloured materials. Port Ryerse patients can find out if replacement is advisable in Port Dover.