Hornsby Dental price guide
| Tooth-coloured filling | $170 – $550 |
| Fissure seal | $50 – $100 |
| Porcelain crown | From $1,800 |
Prices are an estimate only, not a final quote. Your dentist recommends the right material after an examination.
Short answer: there is no single “best” filling material for everyone. For most small to medium cavities, tooth-coloured composite resin is the most common choice today because it bonds to the tooth, needs less drilling and blends in. For large fillings or back teeth that take heavy biting forces, ceramic (porcelain) inlays and onlays are usually the strongest and longest-lasting option. Your dentist will recommend a material based on the size and position of the cavity, your bite and your budget.
What is a dental filling?
A dental filling restores a tooth that has a small area of decay or damage. Your dentist removes the decayed part, cleans the area and seals the space with a filling material so bacteria and food can no longer get in. If the damage is large or the decay has reached the nerve, a dental crown or root canal therapy may be a better option.
Dental filling materials compared
| Material | Appearance | Strength & lifespan | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite resin (white fillings) | Tooth-coloured | Good; typically lasts many years with good care | Small to medium cavities, front and back teeth |
| Ceramic / porcelain (inlays & onlays) | Tooth-coloured, stain-resistant | Very strong and long-lasting | Larger fillings, heavily loaded back teeth |
| Glass ionomer | Tooth-coloured but less natural | Lower strength; releases fluoride | Children’s teeth, small fillings near the gum line, temporary fillings |
| Amalgam (silver) | Silver / grey | Very durable | Back teeth (now used far less often) |
| Gold | Gold | Extremely durable | Back teeth where appearance is less important |
Composite resin (white) fillings
Composite resin is the most popular filling material because it is matched to the shade of your natural teeth. It bonds directly to the tooth, so the dentist can usually keep more healthy tooth structure. Composite can wear or stain over time and is less suited to very large cavities.
Ceramic fillings (inlays and onlays)
Ceramic restorations are made to fit the tooth precisely and are highly resistant to wear and staining. They cost more than direct fillings but are a strong choice for large cavities or cracked back teeth. Using CEREC technology, ceramic restorations can often be designed and made in the clinic.
Glass ionomer fillings
Glass ionomer bonds to the tooth and slowly releases fluoride, which helps protect against further decay. It is not as strong as composite or ceramic, so it is mostly used for children’s teeth, small fillings near the gum line or as a temporary filling.
Amalgam (silver) fillings
Amalgam has been used for well over a century and is very durable, but it is noticeable and requires more of the tooth to be removed. Its use has declined significantly as tooth-coloured materials have improved. If you have existing amalgam fillings that are intact, they usually do not need to be replaced – ask your dentist before having them removed.
Gold fillings
Gold is extremely long-lasting and gentle on opposing teeth, but it is expensive and very visible, so it is rarely chosen today.
How to choose the right filling
- Size of the cavity: small to medium cavities suit composite; large cavities often need ceramic or a crown.
- Position in the mouth: back teeth take heavier biting forces than front teeth.
- Appearance: composite and ceramic blend in with your natural teeth.
- Budget and health fund cover: composite is generally more affordable than ceramic or gold.
- Your dental history: grinding, a heavy bite or a high decay risk may change the recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most durable filling material?
Gold and ceramic restorations are generally the most durable, followed by amalgam. Composite resin is durable for small to medium fillings but may need replacing sooner on large, heavily loaded fillings.
What is the most natural-looking filling?
Ceramic and composite resin are both tooth-coloured. Ceramic is more stain-resistant and keeps its appearance longer.
Should I replace my old silver fillings?
Not necessarily. Intact amalgam fillings usually do not need to be replaced unless they are cracked, leaking or there is new decay underneath. Your dentist can check them at your next visit.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Fillings are normally done under local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Some sensitivity for a few days afterwards is common.
Dental fillings in Hornsby
At Hornsby Dental we offer tooth-coloured dental fillings in Hornsby, 3 minutes from Hornsby Station. If you have a toothache, a chipped tooth or an old filling that needs checking, call (02) 8090 1100 or book online.