What Is a Tooth Filling?
A tooth filling is a common and essential dental procedure used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, cracks, fractures, or other types of wear. When a tooth is affected by cavities or structural damage, our skilled dentists carefully remove the decayed or weakened portion to prevent the spread of bacteria and further deterioration.
Once the damaged area is cleaned and prepared, it is restored using a high-quality, durable dental material—most commonly tooth-coloured composite resin. This material not only blends naturally with your existing teeth for a seamless appearance but also strengthens the tooth to restore its original shape and function.
Also known as a dental filling or tooth restoration, this treatment helps protect your teeth from further decay and sensitivity, allowing you to maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
If you have a cavity or a chipped tooth, a dental filling can prevent further damage and protect your tooth for years to come.
What types of tooth fillings do you offer?
Composite Resin Fillings (White Fillings)
These tooth-coloured fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them a popular choice for visible areas like front teeth.
Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) Fillings
These are slightly off-coloured fillings which are grainier and have poorer wear resistance than their composite cousins, however they have a role in some deeper cavities or for sealing internal parts of a tooth.
Amalgam Fillings
We do not offer Amalgam fillings.
Ceramic and Porcelain Fillings (Inlays/Onlays)
These indirect dental restorations are used for extra strength and a more natural look. They are generally lab made and hence offer excellent durability and aesthetics.
Signs you might need a dental filling
If you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be time to visit our Keysborough clinic for a dental check-up:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Visible holes or dark spots on your teeth (tooth decay)
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Chipped, cracked or broken teeth
Don’t wait until a small cavity becomes a bigger problem. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity contact Dental at Keys so we can look after you sooner.
Are there any complications for Dental Fillings?
It’s important to note that with any procedure, some patients can experience complications with restorative dental work. These may include:
- Sensitivity of the teeth post-treatment.
- Post-operative pain or bleeding.
- Damage to adjacent teeth or tooth restorations.
- Eventual infection or abscess which may require treatment or drainage.
- Temporary swelling or bruising of the gums.
- Chipping, breaking or loosening of the dental filling.
- Injury to soft tissues adjacent to filling due to bonding.
- A change in sensation or numbness to the lip, chin, face and/ or tongue which may be of a temporary or permanent nature.
- In some cases there may be a necessity for a more extensive restoration than originally diagnosed, such as a crown.
- Inability to exactly match tooth coloration.
- Changes in the shade, aesthetics, and appearance of the restoration may occur over time.
- All dental restorations have a limited life-span and will require eventual replacement.
We use modern materials to ensure you get the best result for your dental restoration!
Common Dental Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a dental filling cost?
The average tooth filling price can range anywhere from slightly over a hundred dollars, all the way up to more than thousand dollars. This is highly dependant on the size, depth, complexity and materials used. Ceramic and porcelain fillings are the most expensive dental restoration as they require additional indirect lab work.
How long does a Dental Filling Last?
A dental filling typically lasts between 5 to 10 years, depending on the material used, oral hygiene, and risk factors of tooth decay of the patient.
What is a temp dental filling?
A ‘temp dental filling’ is a short for ‘temporary dental filling’. It is a short-term solution used to protect a tooth until a permanent filling can be placed, usually after procedures like root canals or while waiting for a permanent restoration.
Why does my tooth filling hurt after months?
Your dental restoration may cause discomfort and pain due to several reasons including, bruxism, proximity of the filling to the nerve of the tooth and a change in the way you bite, to name a few.
Can you eat after a tooth filling?
Yes, but it’s recommended to wait at least 1 to 2 hours after the procedure, especially if your mouth is numb. Some dental fillings take some time to set, so additional time maybe required.
