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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Replacement of Old or Stained Fillings in Wilsonville
Dark, worn or leaking fillings may be worth replacing. Wilsonville patients can learn when replacement is advisable and what it involves at our Port Dover office.
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Caring for Wilsonville patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WilsonvilleUpdating worn restorations
Not every old filling needs replacing, but some do.
Fillings do not last forever. Over time they can wear, chip, stain or develop gaps at the edges where decay can begin. Older metal fillings may also look dark through the tooth. Replacing a filling removes some tooth structure each time, so the decision should be based on a clear reason, such as decay, damage or a meaningful cosmetic concern.
If you are from Wilsonville and have fillings that look stained or feel rough, an assessment at our Port Dover office can help determine whether replacement is advisable. The dentist will explain what they see and whether monitoring or replacement makes more sense for each tooth.
Reasons
Replacement should serve a clear purpose.
Functional reasons
Fillings with cracks, gaps at the margins, new decay underneath or significant wear may need replacement to protect the tooth. Fractured tooth structure around a filling is another reason. Sensitivity or food trapping can signal a problem. X-rays help detect decay that is not visible.
Cosmetic reasons
Some people want to replace dark metal or discoloured composite fillings for appearance, particularly on visible teeth. This is a reasonable choice for many, but it involves removing some healthy tooth. The dentist will discuss the trade-offs so you can make an informed decision.
Assessment
Each filling is evaluated individually.
Examining each filling
The dentist examines each filling, checks the edges with an instrument and looks at X-rays. Some fillings that look old are still sealed and functional. Others may appear fine but have hidden decay. Prioritizing replacements based on risk and your goals helps avoid unnecessary treatment.
Choosing a replacement material
Composite resin is a common replacement for small to moderate fillings, offering a tooth-coloured appearance. Larger areas may need an inlay, onlay or crown for strength. The dentist will explain which option suits the size of the filling and the forces on the tooth.
The procedure
Replacement follows careful, step-by-step care.
Removing the old filling
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area. The old filling is removed, and the tooth is checked for decay or cracks underneath. Any decay is cleaned out. Sometimes more damage is found than expected, which can change the type of restoration needed. The dentist will explain if this happens.
Placing the new restoration
The new filling is placed, shaped and polished. For composite, layers are hardened with a curing light. Your bite is checked and adjusted. If a laboratory restoration is needed, a temporary filling is placed and a second visit is arranged.
Aftercare
Good habits extend the life of new fillings.
Short-term sensitivity
Some sensitivity after replacement is common and usually fades. Wait for numbness to wear off before eating. Contact the office if sensitivity persists, the bite feels high or pain develops, as an adjustment or further assessment may be needed.
Keeping fillings healthy
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between teeth and limit frequent sugary snacks. Avoid chewing ice and hard objects. If you grind your teeth, a night guard may help protect fillings. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor restorations over time.
Planning your appointment
Reviewing old fillings from Wilsonville.
Book an exam at our Port Dover office and mention which fillings concern you. The dentist can review them and help you prioritize which, if any, should be replaced first.
If you plan to whiten your teeth, mention it, since new tooth-coloured fillings are usually matched after whitening is complete.
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 metal fillings?
Not necessarily. Sound fillings may not need replacing. The dentist can assess each one and discuss whether replacement offers a clear benefit.
Will replacement weaken my tooth?
Each replacement removes some tooth structure. This is why replacements should be based on clear reasons. The dentist will try to preserve as much tooth as possible.
Can stained composite fillings be polished?
Surface staining can sometimes be improved by polishing. Deeper discoloration may require replacement. The dentist can advise which approach suits your fillings.
How long will the new filling last?
Longevity depends on size, location, material and habits. Many fillings last years with good care and regular checkups.
Will my new filling match my teeth?
Tooth-coloured materials are matched to surrounding teeth. If you plan to whiten, do it beforehand so the new filling matches your brighter shade.
Tooth-coloured repair options
Cosmetic Dentistry →Tooth-Coloured Restorations →
Composite fillings, ceramic onlays and crowns can repair teeth while matching their shade. Wilsonville patients can compare options at our Port Dover dental office.
Composite Fillings →
Composite fillings repair decay with tooth-coloured material bonded to the tooth. Wilsonville patients can learn what to expect at our Port Dover dental office.