Patient video
Welcoming and Wonderful Practice
A patient shares the welcoming atmosphere and positive experience they found at our Port Dover office.
★★★★★
Port Dover Family Dentistry
Replacement of Old or Stained Fillings in Peacock Point
Worn, dark or leaking fillings may be ready for replacement. Peacock Point patients can learn when replacement makes sense and what it involves at our Port Dover office.
New patients welcomeCDCP accepted
Let’s get you smiling
Book an appointment
Tell us how we can help. Our team will follow up to confirm a time.
Caring for Peacock Point residents and cottagers at our Port Dover office
Browse every dental service for Peacock PointRefreshing worn restorations
Not every old filling needs replacing, but some do.
Fillings do not last forever. Over time, they can wear, crack, stain or develop gaps where decay can form underneath. Older silver fillings may darken the surrounding tooth, while tooth-coloured fillings can discolour. Replacement may be recommended for health reasons, appearance or both, but replacing a sound filling unnecessarily can remove healthy tooth structure.
Peacock Point patients concerned about old or stained fillings can have them evaluated at our Port Dover office. The dentist will check each filling’s condition and explain whether replacement is needed or whether it can be safely monitored.
Evaluation
Have your fillings checked carefully.
Signs a filling may need replacing
Cracks, chips, gaps at the edges, decay underneath, persistent sensitivity or a rough feel with your tongue can indicate a filling is failing. Staining or darkening around the edges may suggest leakage. X-rays can reveal decay beneath fillings that cannot be seen during a visual examination.
When monitoring is reasonable
A filling that is intact, sealed and causing no symptoms may not need replacing, even if it is old or not perfectly matched in colour. The dentist will explain the condition of each filling and whether replacement is recommended for health reasons or is primarily a cosmetic choice.
Reasons
Understand the purpose of replacement.
Health-related reasons
Replacing a failing filling can stop decay from progressing, prevent fractures and relieve sensitivity. If decay is found underneath, it must be removed before the tooth is restored. In some cases, a filling has grown so large that a stronger restoration, such as an onlay or crown, may be suggested to protect the tooth.
Cosmetic preferences
Some people choose to replace silver fillings with tooth-coloured materials for a more natural look. Stained composite fillings may also be replaced to improve appearance. Discuss the trade-offs, since replacing a filling always removes some tooth structure. The dentist can help you decide whether cosmetic replacement is worthwhile.
The procedure
Replacement is similar to getting a new filling.
Removing the old filling
The tooth is numbed with local anaesthetic. The old filling material is carefully removed, along with any decay underneath. The dentist inspects the tooth for cracks or other problems. Sometimes more damage is found than expected, which may change the type of restoration needed. The dentist will explain any changes.
Placing the new restoration
The tooth is prepared and restored with a new filling, often tooth-coloured composite. For larger areas, an inlay, onlay or crown may be recommended. The dentist shapes and polishes the restoration and checks your bite. Some sensitivity afterward is common and usually settles within a short time.
Aftercare
Look after your new restoration.
The first few days
Numbness may last a few hours, so avoid chewing until it wears off. Mild sensitivity to cold or pressure may occur briefly. Contact the office if your bite feels high, sensitivity worsens or pain develops. These issues can usually be resolved with a simple adjustment or further assessment.
Long-term maintenance
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth to prevent new decay. Avoid chewing ice or hard objects. If you grind your teeth, ask about a night guard. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor the new filling and catch any problems early.
Planning your appointment
Having fillings evaluated from Peacock Point.
Contact our Port Dover office to book an examination focused on your existing fillings. Mention any that are sensitive, cracked or discoloured so the dentist can check them closely.
Bring X-rays or records from previous dentists, if available, to help the dentist understand the history of your fillings.
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
Filling replacement questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Should I replace all my silver fillings?
Not necessarily. Intact silver fillings that are not causing problems may not need replacement. The dentist will assess each filling and explain whether replacement is recommended for health reasons or is a cosmetic choice.
Does replacing a filling hurt?
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area. You may feel pressure during removal and placement. Some sensitivity afterward is common and usually settles. Contact the office if discomfort persists.
How long do fillings last?
Longevity varies depending on the material, size, location and your habits. Some fillings last many years, while others need replacement sooner. Regular checkups help identify problems early.
Will my new filling match my teeth?
Tooth-coloured composite can be matched closely to your natural teeth. The final appearance depends on the tooth’s colour and translucency. Composite may stain over time, especially with coffee or tea.
What if decay is found under my old filling?
The decay will be removed before the tooth is restored. If the damage is extensive, a larger restoration such as an onlay or crown may be recommended to protect the tooth.
Restoration options for Peacock Point
Cosmetic Dentistry →Tooth-Coloured Restorations →
Composite, ceramic and other tooth-coloured materials can restore damaged teeth naturally. Peacock Point patients can compare options at our Port Dover dental office.
Composite Fillings →
A cavity or small fracture may be restored with composite. Peacock Point patients can learn how these tooth-coloured fillings are placed at our Port Dover office.