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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Replacement of Old or Stained Fillings in Walsingham
Dark, worn or leaking fillings can sometimes be replaced with tooth-coloured materials. Walsingham patients can learn when replacement makes sense and when to leave a filling alone.
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Serving Walsingham households from our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WalsinghamOut with the old
Replacing a filling should be a considered decision.
Fillings do not last forever. Over the years they can wear, crack, stain or develop gaps where new decay starts. Old silver amalgam fillings may look dark, and older tooth-coloured fillings can discolour. Replacing a filling can improve appearance or address a problem, but each replacement also removes some tooth structure, so it is worth weighing the reasons carefully.
Walsingham patients concerned about old or stained fillings can have them assessed at our Port Dover office. The dentist will examine each filling, check X-rays for decay underneath and explain whether replacement is recommended for health reasons, for appearance or whether the filling can safely stay as it is.
Reasons
Fillings are replaced for different reasons.
Health reasons for replacement
Cracks, chips, gaps at the edges, new decay underneath and fillings that have worn down are common health reasons to replace a filling. Large old fillings can also weaken teeth, increasing the risk of fractures. In these cases, replacement protects the tooth. Sometimes a crown or onlay is more suitable than a new filling.
Cosmetic reasons
Some people want to replace visible silver or stained tooth-coloured fillings to improve their smile. This is a valid choice, but replacing a sound filling purely for appearance means drilling away some tooth structure. The dentist will explain the trade-offs and help you decide whether the improvement is worth it for you.
Assessment
The dentist checks the condition of each filling.
Examining each filling
Each filling is examined for cracks, wear, staining and gaps at the margins where it meets the tooth. The dentist checks whether the tooth around it is healthy or shows signs of decay. They also look for fracture lines in the tooth itself, which may influence whether a filling or a larger restoration is recommended.
X-rays and bite
X-rays help reveal decay under or beside fillings that cannot be seen visually. The dentist also checks your bite and any signs of grinding, which can affect how long new fillings last. These findings help prioritize which fillings need attention and which can be monitored.
Replacement
Replacement is similar to having a new filling.
Removing the old filling
The tooth is frozen, and the old filling is carefully removed. For amalgam fillings, the team uses suction and other measures to manage particles. Any decay underneath is cleaned out. The dentist assesses how much healthy tooth remains to decide on the best type of new restoration.
Placing the new restoration
If the tooth is suitable, a tooth-coloured composite filling is placed in layers and hardened with a curing light. Larger restorations, such as inlays, onlays or crowns, may need a second visit. The dentist shapes and polishes the new restoration and checks your bite before you leave.
Afterwards
Care helps the new restoration serve well.
Sensitivity and adjustments
Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure is common for a short time after replacing a filling. If it persists or your bite feels high, contact the office. Deep fillings may take longer to settle. Severe or worsening pain should be reported, as the nerve may need further assessment.
Making new fillings last
Brush twice daily, clean between teeth and limit sugary snacks to protect your fillings. Tooth-coloured fillings can stain, so rinsing after coffee or tea may help. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor your fillings and catch any problems early, often before they require more extensive treatment.
Planning your appointment
Discussing old fillings in Port Dover
Walsingham patients can call our Port Dover office and mention which fillings concern them, whether they cause discomfort and whether the concern is health, appearance or both.
If you plan to whiten your teeth, mention it, since new tooth-coloured fillings are usually matched after whitening is finished.
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. Sound amalgam fillings that are not causing problems may be left in place. The dentist will assess each one and recommend replacement only when there is a health or other good reason.
Is it safe to remove amalgam fillings?
The team takes precautions to manage particles during removal. Removing intact fillings purely for safety concerns is not usually recommended. Ask the dentist about your specific situation.
Will a new filling match my tooth?
Tooth-coloured composite is shade-matched to your teeth. If you plan to whiten, do so first so new fillings can match your new shade.
Can a filling be replaced more than once?
Yes, but each replacement may remove a little more tooth. Eventually, a larger restoration like an onlay or crown may be needed to protect the tooth.
How do I know if a filling needs replacing?
Signs include sensitivity, rough edges, visible cracks, dark staining at the edges or food catching. Many problems are found at checkups before symptoms appear.
Tooth-coloured repair options
Cosmetic Dentistry →Tooth-Coloured Restorations →
Composite, ceramic and other tooth-coloured restorations can repair teeth discreetly. Walsingham patients can learn the options, how they compare and how to care for them.
Composite Fillings →
Composite fillings repair decay and small breaks with tooth-coloured material. Walsingham patients can see how the dentist decides on one and how to care for it afterwards.