Repair cavities with comfortable care
Dental Fillings in Nanaimo
Dental fillings are commonly used to repair teeth affected by cavities, minor decay, or small areas of damage. When decay is removed from a tooth, a filling helps restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and everyday function while helping prevent the cavity from becoming larger.
At Wentworth Dental, our Nanaimo Dental Clinic provides dental fillings with a focus on patient comfort, clear communication, and long-term oral health. If you have tooth sensitivity, discomfort when chewing, visible dark spots, or a cavity found during a dental exam, our team can assess the tooth and explain whether a filling is the right treatment option.
Dental fillings can help patients preserve their natural teeth and avoid more complex treatment when cavities are addressed early.
Cavity Treatment at Wentworth Dental
Before placing a filling, the Dentist will examine the tooth and may recommend dental X-rays to understand the size and depth of the cavity. The area is usually numbed for comfort, and the decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed.
Once the tooth is cleaned and prepared, the filling material is placed, shaped, and polished so your bite feels as natural as possible. Some fillings may be hardened with a special dental light. After treatment, mild sensitivity can happen for a short time, especially with hot or cold foods and drinks. Dental fillings may be recommended for:
What to Expect During a Dental Filling
Small to Moderate Areas of Tooth Decay
Teeth with Minor Chips or Damage
Cavities Found During Dental Exams
Sensitivity Caused by Enamel Breakdown
Worn Areas that Need Added Support
A temporary filling may be used when a tooth needs short-term protection before a final restoration is placed. This can happen if treatment needs to be completed in stages, if a tooth is being monitored, or if urgent care is needed to protect the area until a permanent filling, crown, or other restoration can be completed.
Temporary fillings are not designed to last as long as permanent restorations. They help seal and protect the tooth for a limited time, but they can wear down, loosen, or break if they are used for too long. If you receive a temporary filling, our team will explain how to care for it and when you should return for the next step.
To help protect a temporary filling, avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on that side, brush gently around the area, and contact Wentworth Dental if the filling feels loose, falls out, or the tooth becomes painful.
Temporary Fillings and Short-Term Tooth Protection
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need a dental filling?
You may need a dental filling if you have a cavity, tooth sensitivity, discomfort when biting, visible dark spots, or damage caused by minor decay. Some cavities do not cause pain right away, which is why regular dental exams are important. At Wentworth Dental, our team can examine your teeth, take X-rays when needed, and explain whether a filling is the right option for restoring and protecting the tooth.
Are dental fillings painful?
Dental fillings are usually completed with local anesthetic to help keep the tooth and surrounding area comfortable during treatment. Most patients feel pressure or vibration rather than pain. After the filling is placed, it is normal to have mild sensitivity for a short time, especially with hot, cold, or sweet foods. If discomfort continues or your bite feels uneven, contact Wentworth Dental so our team can check the filling.
How long does a dental filling take?
The time needed for a dental filling depends on the size, location, and number of cavities being treated. Many simple fillings can be completed in one visit, while larger or more complex areas may take longer. During your appointment at our Nanaimo Dental Clinic, the Dentist will assess the tooth, remove decay, place the filling material, shape it, and check your bite before you leave.
What is a temporary filling?
A temporary filling is a short-term restoration used to protect a tooth until permanent treatment can be completed. It may be used during emergency care, between treatment stages, or when a tooth needs time before a final filling or crown is placed. Temporary fillings are helpful, but they are not meant to last permanently. Patients should follow care instructions and return for the recommended follow-up appointment.
Can a filling prevent more serious dental treatment?
Yes, treating a cavity with a dental filling early can help prevent decay from spreading deeper into the tooth. If decay reaches the inner nerve area, more involved treatment such as root canal therapy or a dental crown may be needed. Regular checkups, dental cleanings, and timely fillings can help protect natural teeth and reduce the risk of larger dental concerns developing.
If you have a cavity, tooth sensitivity, or discomfort when chewing, Wentworth Dental can help you understand your options and restore your tooth with comfortable care.
