Dental fillings and cavity care in Vancouver.

Some early lesions can be managed without drilling, depending on their location, activity and whether the surface has broken down. Other lesions need a restoration. A non-filling approach requires a suitable preventive plan and follow-up, rather than assuming decay has disappeared. We distinguish an early lesion with an intact surface from a cavity that traps plaque and cannot be cleaned. Lesion activity, depth and your risk of further decay guide whether prevention, sealing or restoration is appropriate.

Early mineral loss may be arrested or remineralised under suitable conditions. Fluoride, changes to frequent sugar exposure and effective cleaning can support prevention. An established hole does not simply grow back. Your dentist assesses which approach is appropriate. Early mineral loss can sometimes be arrested or remineralized, but fluoride cannot regrow a missing piece of tooth. The plan may combine fluoride, changes to frequent sugar exposure and scheduled reassessment of the same area.

Composite resin is a tooth-coloured restorative material used to repair selected cavities and chips. Material choice depends on the tooth, the location and size of the repair, and the conditions in which the filling is placed. We can explain alternatives where relevant. White fillings are shaped directly on the tooth. Their durability also depends on the size of the defect, keeping the area suitably dry during bonding and controlling the factors that caused the original decay.

We assess the cavity, numb the tooth where needed, manage the decay and place a restoration, then check the bite. The approach depends on how deep the decay is and the tooth’s condition. Research supports conservative decay removal in appropriate teeth to protect the pulp while creating a durable seal.

A recently treated tooth can be sensitive, but persistent symptoms have several possible causes. A bite that feels too high, worsening pain, lingering temperature pain or swelling should be checked. Do not assume all discomfort is normal or that it automatically means you need a root canal. A filling that contacts first when you bite needs a different assessment from brief cold sensitivity. Report spontaneous pain, pain that lingers after a trigger, or symptoms that worsen rather than gradually settle.

A filling’s lifespan varies with its size, location, the bite, cleaning and decay risk. It may be possible to repair a local defect rather than replace the entire filling. We assess the condition of both the restoration and the tooth before recommending a change. A review using data from 2,816 back-tooth composite restorations found that higher decay risk and a greater number of restored surfaces increased failure risk. Decay and fracture were the main failure causes. That is more useful for planning than giving every filling the same expiry date.

We can review brushing, cleaning between teeth, fluoride exposure, frequent snacking or sugary drinks, dry mouth and other risk factors. High-fluoride products or professional preventive treatments are recommended individually rather than as a universal prescription. Regular fluoride toothpaste commonly contains 1,000 to 1,500 ppm fluoride. A higher-strength 5,000 ppm product may be appropriate for selected high-risk patients under dental guidance. It is not a universal upgrade for every adult or a routine choice for young children.