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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Replacement of Old or Stained Fillings in Vittoria
Worn, cracked or stained fillings can sometimes be replaced. Vittoria patients can learn when our Port Dover team advises replacement and which materials suit.
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Browse all dental services for VittoriaRefresh older dental work
An old filling should be replaced for a good reason, not just its age.
Fillings do not last forever. Over years, they can wear, crack, leak at the edges or become stained. Older silver fillings may also be noticeable when you smile or laugh. Replacing a filling can improve appearance and address underlying problems, but removing a sound filling also removes some tooth structure, so the decision deserves careful thought.
Patients from Vittoria who are unhappy with the look of old fillings, or who have been told a filling is failing, can have them assessed at our Port Dover office. The dentist will examine each filling, explain whether replacement is recommended and compare options so you can make a well-informed choice.
When to replace
There are both health and appearance reasons to consider.
Clinical reasons
A filling with cracks, gaps at the edges, new decay underneath or a broken piece may need replacing to protect the tooth. Sensitivity or food catching around a filling can be signs of a problem. X-rays may help reveal decay under old fillings. The dentist will explain the clinical evidence and why replacement is advised.
Cosmetic reasons
Some people want to replace visible silver or stained tooth-coloured fillings for appearance. This can be a reasonable choice, but replacing a sound filling removes some tooth structure and carries a small risk of irritating the nerve. Discuss the benefits and trade-offs openly with the dentist before deciding. Replacing one visible filling at a time is also an option.
Options
The size of the old filling often guides what replaces it.
Composite fillings
Small to moderate fillings are often replaced with tooth-coloured composite, which bonds to the tooth and blends with its natural colour. Composite can be completed in a single visit. The dentist will explain how long it is expected to last and how it compares with the old filling in strength and wear. Shade is matched first.
Inlays, onlays and crowns
Large old fillings may have weakened the tooth. In these cases, an inlay, onlay or crown might provide better long-term protection than another large filling. The dentist will assess the remaining tooth and explain why a particular restoration is recommended, including the number of visits involved. Saving more of the tooth now can keep more choices open for the future.
The procedure
Replacing a filling is similar to placing a new one.
Removing the old filling
The area is numbed, and the old filling is carefully removed. Any decay underneath is cleaned out. The dentist checks the remaining tooth for cracks. If the tooth is more damaged than expected, the plan may change, and the dentist will discuss this with you before continuing. You can raise a hand to pause at any time.
Placing the new restoration
For composite, the material is applied in layers, shaped and hardened with a curing light, then polished. For an inlay, onlay or crown, impressions are taken and a temporary placed until the final restoration is ready. Your bite is checked at the end to make sure everything feels comfortable. Speak up if it feels high.
After replacement
Some sensitivity is normal and usually settles.
Normal sensations
Temporary sensitivity to cold or pressure is common after replacing a filling, particularly if it was large or deep. This usually improves over days or weeks. Contact the office if sensitivity worsens, the bite feels high or you notice lingering pain after hot or cold. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth may ease mild twinges in the meantime.
Keeping restorations healthy
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth to prevent decay around the new restoration. If you grind your teeth, a night guard may help protect it. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor all restorations and catch wear or leaks before they cause problems. Limit frequent sugary snacks and drinks between your meals.
Planning your appointment
Assessing fillings from Vittoria
Contact our Port Dover office to book an assessment of your fillings. Mention whether your concern is appearance, sensitivity or a broken filling so the team can plan the right appointment length.
Bring recent X-rays if you have them, and note any fillings that feel rough, sensitive or catch food when you eat.
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 in good condition may not need replacing. The dentist will assess each one and explain whether replacement is recommended for clinical reasons or is purely a cosmetic choice you may wish to consider.
Is replacing a filling painful?
Local anaesthetic is used, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. Sensitivity afterward is common and usually temporary. Contact the office if discomfort persists or worsens over time. Deeper fillings may take a little longer to settle.
Will the new filling match my teeth?
Tooth-coloured composite is shaded to blend with surrounding teeth. If you plan to whiten, it is usually better to do so first so the new fillings can be matched to your whiter shade. Ask about timing.
How long will a replacement filling last?
Durability depends on size, location, bite forces and home care. The dentist can give a realistic estimate for your specific restoration and explain what helps it last longer. Grinding and frequent snacking can shorten its life.
What if the tooth is more damaged than expected?
Sometimes removing an old filling reveals more decay or cracks. The dentist will discuss this with you and may recommend a stronger restoration, such as an onlay or crown, before proceeding. You will be asked before the plan changes.
Tooth-coloured restoration options
Cosmetic Dentistry →Tooth-Coloured Restorations →
Composite, porcelain and ceramic restorations repair teeth while blending in. Vittoria patients can compare options, durability and upkeep in Port Dover.
Composite Fillings →
Composite fillings repair decay with tooth-coloured material. Vittoria patients can learn when they suit, how they are placed and how to help them last longer.