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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Composite Fillings in Windham Centre
Tooth-coloured composite fillings can repair cavities and minor damage. See how Windham Centre patients are assessed and treated for fillings in Port Dover.
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See every dental service for Windham CentreRepair that blends in
A tooth-coloured filling restores shape while keeping a natural look.
Composite fillings are made from a resin material that bonds to the tooth and can be shaded to match surrounding enamel. They are commonly used to repair cavities, small chips and worn areas. Because the material bonds directly, the dentist can often preserve more of the healthy tooth than older techniques required.
Windham Centre patients needing a filling can be seen at our Port Dover office. The dentist will confirm the extent of the decay or damage, explain whether composite is a good fit for that tooth, and talk through what to expect on the day of treatment.
Confirming the need
Not every dark spot or sensitivity means a filling.
Signs a filling may be needed
Sensitivity to sweets or cold, food catching in one spot, a rough edge your tongue keeps finding or a visible hole can all suggest a cavity or damaged surface. Some early decay causes no symptoms. Staining in grooves may simply be surface discolouration, so it is worth having the dentist look before assuming treatment is required.
How the dentist evaluates the tooth
The dentist examines the tooth, may take X-rays to see between teeth and checks the depth of any decay. Very early lesions might be monitored with fluoride and better cleaning. If decay has progressed into the dentin or a filling is broken, the dentist will explain why a restoration is recommended and which material suits that location.
Choosing composite
Composite works well in many situations but not all.
Benefits of tooth-coloured resin
Composite can be matched closely to the shade of your teeth, making it a popular choice for visible areas. It bonds to enamel and dentin, which can help support the remaining tooth structure. Small to moderate cavities on front and back teeth are often good candidates, and the procedure can usually be completed in a single appointment.
Limits worth understanding
Very large cavities, heavy biting forces or areas that are hard to keep dry may call for a different approach, such as an onlay or crown. Composite can stain over time, especially with coffee, tea or tobacco, and may wear faster than some materials. The dentist will discuss expected lifespan and alternatives openly before you decide.
Treatment day
Placing a composite filling is a careful, layered process.
Removing decay and preparing the tooth
Local anaesthetic is used to keep the tooth comfortable. The dentist removes decay and any weakened structure, then cleans and prepares the surface so the material can bond. Keeping the area dry is important, so cotton rolls or a small rubber shield may be used. Let the team know if you need a break at any point.
Layering, shaping and polishing
Composite is placed in thin layers, each hardened with a special light. The dentist then shapes the filling to match your bite and polishes it smooth. You may be asked to bite on thin paper so high spots can be adjusted. The appointment length depends on the size and number of fillings being placed that day.
Aftercare
Fillings need the same care as natural teeth.
The first day or two
Numbness usually fades within a few hours, so take care not to bite your lip or cheek. Mild sensitivity to cold or pressure is common for a short time. If your bite feels uneven, or sensitivity worsens or lasts beyond a couple of weeks, call the office so the dentist can check the filling and adjust it if needed.
Making fillings last
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth to prevent new decay around the edges of the filling. Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Avoid chewing ice or hard objects. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor fillings for wear, staining or small chips that can be repaired before larger problems develop underneath the surface.
Planning your appointment
Booking a filling from Windham Centre.
Call our Port Dover office and describe your symptoms or the tooth that needs attention. If another dentist has recommended a filling, mention it so the team can arrange the right appointment.
Bring recent X-rays if available, along with a list of medications and any allergies to dental materials or anaesthetic you know about.
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 your oral hygiene. Many last for years. Regular checkups allow the dentist to spot wear or leakage early so the filling can be repaired or replaced if needed.
Can old silver fillings be replaced with composite?
Sometimes, particularly when the old filling is worn, cracked or has decay around it. Replacing sound fillings purely for appearance should be discussed carefully. The dentist will explain the benefits and risks for each tooth.
Will the filling be sensitive afterward?
Some sensitivity to cold or pressure is common for a short period. It usually settles. If it gets worse, lingers or the bite feels off, contact the office so the filling can be checked and adjusted.
Can composite be used on back teeth?
Yes, composite is commonly used on back teeth for small to moderate cavities. Large restorations under heavy biting forces may need a stronger option such as an onlay or crown. The dentist will advise after examining the tooth.
Do composite fillings stain?
They can pick up stains over time, especially from coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco. Polishing at checkups helps. Good hygiene and limiting staining foods can keep fillings looking natural longer between professional cleanings and checkups.
When a filling is not enough
General Dentistry →Inlays and Onlays →
Too much damage for a filling but not enough for a crown? Windham Centre patients can learn how inlays and onlays restore back teeth at our Port Dover office.
Replacement of Old or Stained Fillings →
Dark, worn or leaking fillings may need replacing. Windham Centre patients can learn when replacement is advised and which materials suit them in Port Dover.