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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Replacement of Old or Stained Fillings in Tillsonburg
Old fillings can crack, leak or look dark. How the dentist decides whether to replace one, and which tooth-coloured choices Tillsonburg patients can consider.
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Every dental service for Tillsonburg patientsRefreshing older dental work
Not every old filling needs replacing, but some do.
Fillings do not last forever. Over years of chewing, they can wear, crack, pull away from the tooth or develop decay around the edges. Some, particularly older silver or tooth-coloured fillings, may also become stained or noticeably dark. Replacing them can be about tooth health, appearance or both.
Tillsonburg patients can have older fillings assessed at our Port Dover office. If several teeth are involved, asking how replacements could be grouped or sequenced helps balance comfort with the number of trips you need to make.
Assessing the filling
Replacement starts with a careful look.
Signs a filling may be failing
Sensitivity, food catching, a rough edge, visible cracks, a dark line around the edge or a change in how the tooth feels when chewing can all suggest a filling needs attention. Some failing fillings cause no symptoms. Mention any changes you have noticed so the dentist knows where to focus.
How the dentist evaluates it
The dentist examines the filling’s edges, checks for cracks and may use X-rays to look for decay beneath it. A filling that is intact and sealed may not need replacing, even if it is old. Ask the dentist to explain whether replacement is needed for health reasons or would be mainly cosmetic.
Making the choice
Understand why replacement is suggested.
Clinical versus cosmetic reasons
Replacing a failing filling protects the tooth from further decay or fracture. Replacing a sound filling purely for appearance is a personal choice, and it does involve removing some tooth structure. The dentist can help you understand the benefits and risks so you can decide what suits you.
Weighing the trade-offs
Each time a filling is replaced, the cavity may become slightly larger. For very large fillings, an onlay or crown might be suggested instead. Ask about the long-term implications for the tooth, particularly if you are considering replacing several fillings at once.
Replacement options
The right material depends on the tooth.
Tooth-coloured composite fillings
Composite resin is a common replacement, offering a tooth-coloured appearance and bonding to the tooth. It suits many small to moderate restorations. The dentist will match the shade to your surrounding teeth. Ask how composite is expected to perform for the specific tooth and bite involved.
Inlays, onlays and crowns
If the old filling is large or the tooth is weakened, a ceramic inlay, onlay or crown may provide more support. These usually involve two appointments. Ask about the number of visits needed so you can plan the trips from Tillsonburg around work and other commitments.
After replacement
Care routines help new fillings last.
What to expect after treatment
Mild sensitivity to temperature or biting is common for a short time after replacement. If it persists or the bite feels high, contact the Port Dover office. A quick adjustment may be all that is needed. Avoid chewing on the treated side until the freezing wears off.
Maintaining your new fillings
Brush twice daily, clean between teeth and limit frequent sugary snacks to protect the edges of new fillings. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor them. Coffee, tea and tobacco can stain composite over time, so discuss habits that may help keep fillings looking fresh.
Planning your appointment
Have older fillings checked from Tillsonburg.
Call our Port Dover office to ask about an assessment of your older fillings. Mention any sensitivity, cracks or appearance concerns you have noticed.
If several fillings may need replacing, ask how the work could be sequenced to reduce the number of trips.
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 old silver fillings?
Not necessarily. Sound fillings that are not causing problems may not need replacing. The dentist will assess each one and explain whether replacement is recommended for health or is a cosmetic choice, since every replacement removes a little more tooth.
Does replacing a filling hurt?
Local anaesthetic is usually used, so you should feel pressure rather than pain. Some sensitivity afterwards is common and usually settles within days or weeks. Tell the team if you have had trouble getting numb before so they can plan.
Will a new tooth-coloured filling match my teeth?
Composite is shade-matched to the surrounding teeth. If you plan to whiten, consider doing so first, as composite does not change colour with whitening and a filling matched beforehand may later look darker.
How long do replacement fillings last?
It depends on the size, material, bite forces and home care. Many last for years. Regular checkups help the dentist monitor the edges and recommend repairs when needed, before decay can spread beneath them.
Can several fillings be replaced in one visit?
Sometimes, depending on the teeth involved and your comfort. Ask the dentist whether grouping replacements is suitable, especially if you want to reduce trips from Tillsonburg. Longer visits are not right for everyone, so comfort matters too.
Restoration options to compare
Cosmetic Dentistry →Tooth-Coloured Restorations →
Composite fillings, ceramic onlays and crowns repair teeth while blending in. Compare durability and visits before booking in Port Dover from Tillsonburg.
Composite Fillings →
Tooth-coloured composite repairs many cavities in one visit. When it suits a tooth, what to expect and how Tillsonburg patients can care for it.