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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Composite fillings repair decay with tooth-coloured material bonded to the tooth. Wilsonville patients can learn what to expect at our Port Dover dental office.
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Caring for Wilsonville patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WilsonvilleTooth-coloured repairs
Composite resin is a tooth-coloured material that bonds directly to enamel and dentin. It is commonly used to repair cavities, replace small broken areas and restore worn edges. Because it is built up in layers and hardened with a curing light, it can often be shaped to match the natural contours of the tooth.
Wilsonville patients who have been told they need a filling, or who notice a sensitive or rough spot on a tooth, can arrange an appointment at our Port Dover office. The dentist will explain the size of the repair and whether composite is a suitable material for that particular location.

Why a filling
Many cavities are found during routine examinations or on X-rays before they cause pain. Treating them at this stage usually means a smaller, simpler repair. Decay that is left alone can progress toward the nerve, which may lead to more involved treatment later. Your dentist will show you what was found and why a filling is suggested.
Sensitivity to sweets or cold, a rough edge your tongue keeps finding, food catching between teeth or a visible dark spot may all signal a problem. Some cavities produce no symptoms at all. If you notice changes, mention them when booking so the dentist can check the specific tooth that concerns you.
Choosing materials
Composite is often chosen for front and back teeth where appearance matters and the cavity is small to moderate. Because it bonds to the tooth, it may allow the dentist to preserve more natural structure. It is also useful for repairing chipped edges or closing small gaps as part of a conservative approach.
Very large cavities, teeth under heavy biting forces or areas that are hard to keep dry may call for a different restoration, such as an onlay or crown. Your dentist will explain the trade-offs, including durability and how much tooth would need to be removed, before recommending an approach.
The appointment
Local anaesthetic is usually used to keep the area comfortable. The dentist removes the decayed portion and cleans the space. The tooth is kept dry so the bonding agent can adhere properly. You may feel pressure and vibration, but you should not feel sharp pain; signal if you need a pause.
Composite is placed in thin layers, each hardened with a blue curing light. The dentist then shapes and polishes the filling and checks your bite with marking paper. Tell the dentist if anything feels high when you close, since even a small difference can cause soreness later.
Aftercare
Wait until the numbness wears off before eating to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. Mild sensitivity to cold or pressure can occur for a short time. If sensitivity is strong, keeps increasing or the bite feels uneven, call the office so the filling can be checked and adjusted.
Composite fillings can wear or stain over time. Brushing twice daily, cleaning between teeth and limiting frequent sugary snacks reduce the risk of new decay around the edges. Avoid chewing ice or hard objects. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor fillings and repair small problems early.
Planning your appointment
Contact our Port Dover office to schedule a filling appointment or an exam if you have a new concern. Let the team know which tooth is bothering you and whether you have any symptoms.
Mention any allergies, medications or past reactions to local anaesthetic so the team can prepare appropriately.
Before you book
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Longevity depends on the filling’s size, its location, your bite and your oral hygiene. Many last for years, but they can wear or chip. Regular checkups help identify when a filling needs repair or replacement.
Composite hardens during the appointment, so the filling itself is set. Wait until numbness fades before eating to avoid accidental bites. Start with softer foods if the tooth feels tender.
The dentist selects a shade to blend with your natural tooth. Teeth can change colour over time, and whitening does not change the colour of composite, so mention any plans to whiten before treatment.
Some sensitivity after a filling is common and often fades. If it worsens, lingers or the bite feels high, contact the office. An adjustment or further assessment may be needed.
Sometimes, if the old filling is failing or there is decay. Replacing sound fillings purely for appearance is a decision to discuss carefully with your dentist, considering the benefits and the tooth structure involved.
Inlays and onlays repair back teeth that need more than a filling but less than a crown. Wilsonville patients can compare these options at our Port Dover office.
Dark, worn or leaking fillings may be worth replacing. Wilsonville patients can learn when replacement is advisable and what it involves at our Port Dover office.
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New patients and CDCP patients are welcome. Tell us how we can help and our Port Dover dental team will follow up with you.
Evening appointments Monday and Tuesday