Dental Fillings
Why You Might Need a Dental Filling
Several factors can contribute to the need for dental fillings, such as your lifestyle choices, oral hygiene habits, genetics, and diet. By addressing these concerns early, we can help prevent the progression of decay and minimise the need for more extensive dental procedures down the line.
Tooth decay starts when harmful bacteria in the mouth produce acids that wear away the enamel, leading to cavities. If untreated, the decay can spread to the deeper layers of the tooth, leading to serious complications. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for identifying the early signs of decay, ensuring that fillings are placed before the situation worsens.
Do I Need a Filling / Restoration
- A visible hole in the tooth, which can be felt with your tongue
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Toothache or pain, especially when chewing
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Floss tearing or catching between your teeth
- Discolouration or grey shadowing beneath the tooth's surface
- A rough or uneven tooth surface
- Visible tooth decay on X-rays
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to visit Hornsby Dental for a thorough examination. Early intervention can prevent more significant problems in the future.
Types of Dental Filling Materials
1. Direct Fillings
2. Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are tooth-coloured fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Made from a resin matrix filled with fine ceramic particles, composite fillings can be used for cavities of all sizes. These fillings are particularly popular for front teeth or other areas where aesthetics are a concern.
While composite fillings offer excellent cosmetic results, they are prone to shrinking slightly once hardened, especially in larger cavities. This can lead to tiny gaps or voids, which may allow decay to develop around the edges of the filling over time.
3. Amalgam Fillings
4. Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC)
Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) is a tooth-coloured material that bonds well to tooth surfaces and releases fluoride, helping to prevent further cavities. While it isn’t as aesthetically pleasing as composite resin, GIC is often used in areas where moisture control is difficult. This material is a good option for patients who are at higher risk of decay, as the fluoride release can provide ongoing protection.
GIC is also commonly used as a base material under more durable fillings, providing insulation for the tooth’s nerve. However, its wear resistance is lower than that of composite resins or amalgam, meaning it is often used as a temporary or short-to-medium term solution.
5. Indirect Fillings
Indirect fillings are made outside of the mouth, typically in a dental laboratory, and are custom-fitted to the tooth. These fillings are often made from porcelain or ceramic materials and provide a natural look that mimics the appearance of real teeth.
Porcelain fillings do not stain like composite resin and are highly durable, making them an excellent choice for restoring large cavities or damaged teeth.
Inlays and onlays are types of indirect restorations, with inlays filling cavities between the cusps of a tooth and onlays covering the cusps of a tooth. Indirect fillings offer superior strength and long-lasting results, especially when the tooth structure is weakened or damaged.
The Dental Filling Process at Hornsby Dental
At Hornsby Dental, we ensure a comfortable and thorough treatment experience from start to finish. Here’s a look at the steps involved in the dental filling process:
1.
Consultation and Examination:
Your dentist will begin by evaluating your teeth and discussing your concerns. X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of decay, allowing us to create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
2.
Decay Removal:
If a cavity is found, your dentist will carefully remove the decayed tissue from the affected tooth. This step ensures that all harmful bacteria are eliminated, preventing further damage.
3.
Filling Placement:
After cleaning the cavity, the dentist will place the selected filling material into the tooth. If a composite resin is used, it will be layered and cured to harden each layer before the next one is applied.
4.
Shaping and Polishing:
Once the filling has been placed, it will be shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth. This ensures that your bite feels comfortable and the tooth functions as it should.
5.
Follow-up Appointment:
After your filling is placed, a follow-up appointment may be scheduled to ensure that the restoration fits properly and is comfortable. This gives you an opportunity to discuss any concerns and ensure that your dental filling is functioning well.
How Much Do Fillings Cost?
The cost of dental fillings can vary depending on the material used and the location of the cavity. For example, composite fillings are typically more expensive than amalgam fillings but offer superior aesthetic results. The size and location of the filling will also influence the cost, with larger cavities or fillings on back teeth generally requiring more extensive treatment.
To get an accurate quote for your individual needs, we recommend scheduling a consultation at Hornsby Dental. Our team will provide a transparent breakdown of costs and work with you to create an affordable treatment plan.
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check up & clean
$219 or NO GAP
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FROM $30 a WEEK
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FROM $1,820 EACH
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FROM $5,199 EACH
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Get in Touch with Hornsby Dental
Contact us today at (02) 8090 1100 or book online to schedule a consultation and learn more about the dental filling options that are best suited to your needs. Let us help you maintain a healthy, confident smile for years to come.
Other Restoration Options
COMPOSITE
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FROM $40 PER WEEK
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VENEERS
FROM $57 A WEEK
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FROM $1,820 EACH
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FROM $5,199 EACH
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FROM $135 A WEEK
Meet Our Dentists
Dr. Mark Neih
BDS (Otago, NZ)
Dr. Philip Song
BDS (Hons) (USyd) Bsc
Dr. Richard Huang
DMD (USyd)