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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Composite Fillings in Selkirk
A tooth-coloured composite filling can repair many cavities. Selkirk residents can learn how fillings are placed and maintained at our Port Dover office.
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Serving patients from Selkirk at our Port Dover office
See every service for Selkirk patientsRepairing decay with a natural look
A small cavity is easier to treat than a large one.
Composite fillings are made from a tooth-coloured resin that bonds to the tooth. They are commonly used to repair cavities, replace worn or broken fillings and restore small chips. Because the material can be shaded to blend with surrounding enamel, composite is often chosen for visible teeth as well as many back teeth.
Selkirk residents can have a cavity or worn filling assessed at our Port Dover office. The dentist will explain whether composite is suitable for that particular tooth, or whether the size and location of the damage mean another type of restoration, such as an onlay or crown, would provide better long-term strength.
Finding the need
Cavities do not always announce themselves.
Symptoms that suggest a cavity
Sensitivity to sweets or cold, a rough edge your tongue keeps finding, food catching between two teeth or a dark spot can all suggest decay. Some cavities cause no symptoms until they are fairly large. That is why regular checkups are useful for finding problems early, while they are smaller and more straightforward to repair.
What the exam confirms
The dentist examines the tooth visually and may use X-rays to see between teeth or under existing fillings. Not every dark mark is decay; some are stains that only need monitoring. If a cavity is confirmed, the dentist will explain its size and location and discuss whether a composite filling is an appropriate option for that tooth.
Is composite right?
Size, position and bite all influence the decision.
Where composite works well
Composite works well for many small to moderate cavities, front teeth and areas where appearance matters. It bonds to enamel, which may allow more conservative preparation in some situations. The material can also be used to repair small chips. The dentist will match the shade to your tooth and explain how the repair should look once finished.
When something stronger may be needed
Very large cavities or teeth under heavy biting forces may be better served by an inlay, onlay or crown, which can protect weakened walls more effectively. If you grind your teeth, mention it, as this can affect any restoration. The dentist will discuss the pros and cons of each option so you can choose with a clear understanding.
Placing the filling
The appointment follows a predictable sequence.
Numbing and removing decay
Local anaesthetic is usually used to keep the tooth comfortable. The dentist removes the decay and prepares the tooth surface. Keeping the area dry is important for bonding, so cotton rolls or a rubber dam may be used. Let the dentist know if you feel discomfort at any point, and pauses can be arranged when needed.
Building and shaping the filling
The composite is placed in layers and hardened with a special light. The dentist then shapes and polishes the filling so it fits your bite and feels smooth. You may be asked to bite on thin paper to check contact. If your bite feels high after the numbness wears off, contact the office so it can be adjusted.
After the visit
Good habits protect the repair and the tooth.
The first day or two
Wait for numbness to wear off before eating to avoid biting your lip or cheek. Mild sensitivity to cold or pressure for a short time can occur and often settles. If sensitivity worsens, pain develops when biting, or the bite feels uneven, call the office. These signs can usually be checked and addressed with a short follow-up visit.
Helping the filling last
Brush twice daily, clean between teeth and limit frequent snacking on sugary foods. Composite can stain over time with coffee, tea or tobacco, and edges may wear. Avoid biting very hard objects. Regular checkups allow the dentist to inspect fillings and catch any new decay around the margins before it becomes a larger problem.
Planning your appointment
Booking a filling appointment from Selkirk.
If decay has already been found, contact our Port Dover office and mention which tooth needs treatment. If you have new symptoms, describe them so the team can arrange an exam first.
Bring recent X-rays from another office if available and let the team know about any allergies or health changes since your last visit.
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.
Do composite fillings look natural?
They are tooth-coloured and can be shaded to blend with your enamel, so they are often hard to notice. Over time they may stain slightly. The dentist will discuss appearance expectations for the specific tooth being treated.
How long do composite fillings last?
Lifespan varies with the size of the filling, your bite, grinding habits and oral hygiene. Regular checkups help monitor fillings so wear or new decay can be addressed before larger problems develop. Ask the dentist about your particular situation.
Will I feel pain during the filling?
Local anaesthetic is usually used to keep the tooth comfortable. You may feel pressure or vibration. Let the dentist know if anything feels uncomfortable so they can pause and consider additional numbing where appropriate.
Can I eat right after a composite filling?
The material is hardened during the appointment, but it is wise to wait until numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. Follow any specific instructions the dentist provides after your visit.
Can old metal fillings be replaced with composite?
Sometimes. Replacement is usually considered when a filling is worn, cracked or has decay around it, or for appearance reasons. The dentist will assess whether replacing it is advisable and which material would suit the tooth.
Other restorative choices
General Dentistry →Inlays and Onlays →
When a cavity is too large for a filling but a crown seems excessive, an inlay or onlay may fit. Selkirk patients can compare options at our Port Dover office.
Replacement of Old or Stained Fillings →
Dark, worn or leaking fillings can sometimes be replaced with tooth-coloured materials. Selkirk patients can learn when replacement makes sense in Port Dover.