Dental Tooth Fillings Melbourne

Dental fillings are designed to fill any holes or gaps in your teeth. They will fill the space to prevent any tooth decay or your teeth from becoming more damaged. When a filling is placed, your tooth will function normally, even if there is some missing tooth structure. A filling is typically used when minor repairs to your tooth are needed, in more serious cases a root canal treatment or tooth removal and replacement might be required. You can book an appointment to speak to our dental experts to see which treatment is right for you.

You might need a filling to fill a cavity, to fix a cracked or broken tooth, or to restore a tooth that has been worn down by erosion or grinding. Fillings are recommended to prevent further damage and infection and to help with a toothache. They will also restore your tooth function, making it easier for you to chew and speak.

There are several dental filling options, but commonly, amalgam (silver), composite resin, gold, and ceramic fillings are used. Other options include zirconia fillings, and your dentist will discuss the available options to help you pick the right type of dental filling.

Amalgam and composite fillings are the most popular, with silver fillings typically used in your back teeth and composite resin in your front teeth, where it would be more noticeable.

Fillings cost between $50 and $900 per tooth, depending on the filling you choose and if additional dental work is required. Amalgam fillings are the cheapest option, while porcelain fillings are the most expensive. Composite fillings are reasonably priced, costing between $195 and $595.

To allow you to pay for dental fillings without worrying about hefty bills, we offer several flexible payment plans that make it easy for you to spread the cost without any unexpected fees.

Dental fillings can last from 7 to 20 years. Their lifespan depends on the material of the filling, with amalgam and gold fillings easily lasting 15 to 20 years or longer. Composite fillings have a shorter lifespan of 10 to 12 years, but providing regular care and maintenance can extend their lifespan. Maintaining good oral health will also extend the lifespan of your filling, along with avoiding smoking and other dangerous habits.

Typically, getting a filling does not hurt. Local anaesthetic is provided to reduce any pain, ensuring you get the care you need without worrying about the pain. You might feel some discomfort during the process, but there should not be any pain.

The procedure for getting a filling follows six simple steps, from consultation to the final bite check. Typically, the area where the filling is being placed is clean with any decay or debris removed before the filling is inserted. The filling is shaped and polished to help blend with your natural teeth too. The procedure can vary slightly, so book an appointment with a dentist to learn more about what your specific procedure could involve.

Old dental fillings can be replaced if there is decay underneath, they have deteriorated, or you want to replace an old filling with a new, natural-looking one. Old fillings need to be replaced by a dentist, who can remove the old filling, clear out any decay, and replace it with a new filling.

The biggest difference between composite and amalgam fillings is the material used. Composite resin fillings are made with plastic and glass, which are bonded to the tooth to fill gaps in your teeth. Amalgam fillings are metal fillings made from silver, mercury, and other metals. While they don't look as natural, they are very durable and will last for years. Silver fillings are perfect for back teeth, allowing you to chew normally.

At a consultation appointment, we can discuss your options and whether a composite or amalgam filling is better suited to your needs.

Tooth coloured fillings, especially those made by resin, are durable, but they aren't always as strong as metal ones. While modern fillings are becoming just as durable, metal fillings are usually recommended for back teeth responsible for all your chewing. Metal fillings will last longer and are less likely to chip and break, reducing the need for several visits to the dentist. Book a consultation appointment to discuss your options and whether a tooth-coloured or metal filling is right for you.

Dental fillings will look natural if you choose a tooth-coloured filling. Composite fillings are made from a resin that can be adjusted to perfectly match your teeth, so you won't notice the filling. Silver fillings can be more noticeable and are better suited to your back teeth, where they won't be as noticeable.

Medicare does not usually cover tooth fillings. Standard A and B Medicare plans will not cover tooth fillings, and you will need to pay for the treatment yourself, but some Advantage Plans will offer dental coverage. They might pay for your tooth fillings if they are deemed medically necessary, but you will need to check to see if your plan provides cover for this.

If you don't have Medicare that covers the cost of tooth fillings, you can take advantage of our flexible payment plans to spread the cost of your treatment if needed.