A dental filling is a procedure used to fill a hole or cavity in the tooth. Various materials can be used as fillings.
Tooth colored or White fillings
Composite resin is the material of choice mainly in the anterior or front teeth that are in the aesthetic zone. These fillings are also fairly durable and are ideal for small to midsize restorations in areas of your mouth that perform moderate chewing
Amalgam fillings
Silver is the most common material used for a cavity filling. It is one of the most durable materials for posterior teeth fillings.
We determine on a case by case basis which material best suits any given situation.
Glass ionomer fillings
The blend of acrylic and glass is used to create a cavity filling that releases fluoride to help protect the tooth.
Glass Ionomer cavity filling is less durable than other types and may need to be replaced sooner than other materials.
We are happy to discuss all the advantages and disadvantages of any given material.
What to expect after a filling ?
You may experience some sensitivity or pain after receiving the fillings but this discomfort should subside soon.
Try not to neglect your oral care routine.
When to replace a filling ?
Teeth fillings especially which are a few years old may need to be replaced, because fillings can wear out over years of use.
If you clench or grind your teeth you may need to have the fillings replaced sooner. Continuing to chew with a cracked or worn out filling can cause the tooth to crack and require additional repair that is more expensive and more complicated than a simple filling.
Is there any alternative to a filling ?
If secondary tooth decay develops around a pre-existing filling the tooth may no longer be amenable to a filling.
It may then require a crown or a cap or sometimes may even require an extraction.
Schedule your dental fillings today
If you would like to book with us, please call Family Dentist at (03) 9798 4420, (03) 9798 4822. If you need to reach us after regular business hours, you can Book an appointment online or you can leave your name and number and we will get back to you.
