A cavity is not just a minor inconvenience, it's a sign that something is wrong with your teeth. Left untreated, cavities can lead to more serious dental problems.
At Gorgeous Smiles Dentistry, we offer tooth fillings as a way to restore your teeth to their former glory. We are passionate about helping our patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health, and we believe that fillings are an important part of that.
Additionally, our dental clinic offers a relaxing and comfortable environment, so you can feel at ease during your appointment.
Schedule an appointment today to get started on your road to a healthy and beautiful smile!
A dental filling is a treatment used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay. The filling materials are placed to restore tooth structure and function.
Several different types of materials can be used for fillings, including gold, silver amalgam, composite resin, and ceramic. Each type of material has its advantages and disadvantages.
For example, gold fillings are very strong and durable, but they are also the most expensive type of filling. Silver amalgam fillings are less expensive and can resist wearing better than composite resin fillings, but they are also more noticeable.
Composite fillings are less noticeable than silver amalgam fillings, but they may not last as long. Ceramic fillings are the most expensive type of filling, but they can resist wear and tearing well and blend in seamlessly with the natural colour of your teeth.
Your dentist will help you choose the best type of filling material for your needs.
How do fillings work?
To place a dental filling, your dentist will first remove the decayed tissue from your tooth. The area will then be cleaned and prepared for the filling material.
Once the area is ready, the filling material will be placed into the tooth and shaped to match the contours of your natural tooth. The material will then be hardened using a special light or laser.
After the filling has hardened, your dentist will check to make sure that it is seated correctly and that there are no gaps between the filling and your tooth.
You may need to return to your dentist for a follow-up visit to have the filling checked or replaced if it becomes loose or starts to wear down over time. Dental fillings can last for many years with proper care and oral hygiene habits.
Benefits of Fillings
Dental fillings are an important part of oral health. Here are four reasons why you should consider getting dental fillings.
1. Prevent the tooth decay from getting worse
While fillings are typically used to restore teeth damaged by decay, they can also be used to prevent further damage. Once sealed off with a filling, the tooth is protected from bacteria and other substances that can cause decay.
2. Restore the tooth to its original shape and function
Dental fillings are used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay. The filings are made of materials that bond to the tooth and harden to create a smooth, close-fitting surface. This not only restores the tooth to its original shape and function but also strengthens it and helps to prevent further decay.
3. Prevent the need for more extensive dental work in the future
When a tooth is damaged by decay, the inner pulp of the tooth can become infected. This can lead to serious oral health problems, such as an abscessed tooth.
Fillings can help preserve the tooth's health by sealing off the tooth and preventing bacteria from entering. This helps to prevent infection and preserves the health of the tooth.
4. Improve the appearance of your smile
When it comes to dental care, most people focus on keeping their teeth clean and free of cavities. However, fillings can also play an important role in maintaining a healthy smile. In addition to preventing tooth decay, fillings can also help to restore the natural appearance of your teeth.
If you have a filling that is noticeably discoloured, it can be replaced with a tooth-coloured filling that is virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. In some cases, fillings can also be used to reshape teeth that are chipped or misshapen.
As a result, dental fillings can not only improve the health of your smile but also give you the confidence to show your teeth in public.
The best way to determine if dental fillings are right for you is to schedule a dental appointment with your dentist.
During your appointment, your dentist will examine your teeth and discuss your treatment options with you. In some cases, an alternative treatment, such as a dental crown, may be recommended.
If you have any concerns about dental fillings or your oral health, be sure to discuss them with one of our experienced dentists. They will be able to answer any questions you have and help you make the best decision for your smile.
Dental fillings are necessary when a tooth decays or has developed a crack. The purpose of the filling is to restore the shape, function, and aesthetics of the tooth.
Take a look at the steps involved in the dental filling process:
1. Examine
Your dentist will take a close look at the affected tooth to determine the best way to proceed. They will also assess the extent of the damage and decide whether a filling is the best option.
2. Remove and Fill
Once it has been determined that a dental filling procedure is necessary, your dentist will remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth. They will first apply local anesthesia to numb the area. Next, they will use a drill or another tool to remove the damaged tooth material. Once the area is clean, they will fill it with a composite resin material that matches the colour of your tooth. The filling will then be hardened with a special light.
3. Polish
After the filling has been placed, your dentist will polish it to ensure a smooth surface and doesn't interfere with your bite. To polish your teeth, most dentists use a small rubber cup that rotates on the end of a handheld wand.
After your tooth filling is complete, it's important to take good care of your teeth. We recommend regularly brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day. You should also visit your dentist for regular dental appointments and cleanings at least twice a year.
Fillings Cost & Payment Plans
Dental Filling
Tooth Filling; $135 - $400 *depending on the decay's complexity
At Gorgeous Smiles Dentistry, we understand that dental care can be expensive. We offer a variety of payment options to make dental care more affordable for our patients, including:
Depending on the location of the filling and your oral hygiene habits, a tooth filling can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. The type of dental filling used also plays a role in how long it will last.
Do tooth fillings hurt?
No, dental fillings should not hurt. Your dentist will numb the area with a local anaesthetic before they begin the procedure, so you should only feel pressure during the filling process. However, you may experience some sensitivity in the days after your filling is placed. This is normal and will go away on its own.
If you have any concerns about your dental fillings, be sure to contact your dentist. They will be able to answer any questions you have and help you make the best decision for your smile.
What are the 5 types of filling?
The five types of fillings are:
Amalgam (silver) fillings
Composite (tooth-coloured) fillings
Gold fillings
Porcelain (ceramic) fillings
Zirconia (white gold) fillings
What does a tooth filling do?
Typically, a tooth filling is used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay. The filling will help to prevent further damage to the tooth and restore its function and aesthetics.
Can I eat after a filling?
It is recommended that 2 hours after your filling, you eat a soft diet and avoid hot or cold drinks. After this, you can return to your regular diet.
What is in a dental filling?
There are various types of dental fillings, each with its unique composition. The most common type of filling is composite resin fillings. They are made of a mixture of powdered glass quartz, silica, or other particles and a resin base. They are tooth-coloured, so they can be used to restore teeth that are visible when you smile. However, they are not as strong as amalgam fillings and may not last as long.
Amalgam is a safe and effective filling material made of a mixture of metals, including silver, copper, tin, mercury, and zinc. Although mercury exposure can be toxic in high doses, the small amount used in amalgam fillings is not harmful to most people. The Australian Dental Association continues to support the use of amalgam fillings because they are both strong and affordable.
Gold fillings are made of a gold alloy, copper, and other metals, and are often used to restore teeth. They are strong and durable, but they are also the most expensive type of filling.
Porcelain fillings, also known as ceramic fillings, are made of oxygen and silicon that are fused together. They are tooth-coloured and can be used to restore both front and back teeth. Porcelain fillings are strong and durable, but they are also more expensive than a composite or silver amalgam filling.
Zirconia fillings are the newest type of filling on the market. It is made of zirconium dioxide, which is a white, tooth-coloured metal. They are stronger than porcelain fillings and can be used to restore both front and back teeth.
Which filling is best for teeth?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best type of filling for your teeth will depend on the location and severity of the decay, as well as your budget.
If you have a cavity in a visible tooth, you may want to consider porcelain or composite filling. These types of fillings can be matched to the colour of your teeth, so they will be less noticeable.
If you have a cavity in a back tooth, an amalgam filling may be the best option. Amalgam fillings are strong and durable, so they can withstand the force of chewing. They are also more affordable than composite or porcelain fillings.
If you are looking for a filling that will last a long time, you may want to consider a gold filling. Gold fillings are strong and durable, but they are also the most expensive type of filling.
No matter which type of filling you choose, it's important to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. This will help to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy and that any cavities are caught early.
Book an Appointment
If you think you may have a cavity, it's important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment can help to prevent the cavity from getting worse and causing further damage to your tooth.
To book an appointment with one of our experienced dentists, call us today at (03) 9042 048 or schedule an appointment online.
Disclaimer: every treatment has risks. The treatment posted on this page might not be appropriate for your oral environment. You need a full consultation with an Australian qualified dental professional before we can confirm if you are a good candidate for any treatments. Results vary from person to person. This page’s posts does not replace real life dental professional’s examination & opinion. We are a very experienced team of general dentists with special interests in different fields if dentistry.
