A dental filling repairs the damage caused by tooth decay or a fracture. It restores the natural appearance of a decayed or previously filled tooth. Dental fillings today are tooth-coloured, which blend very well with tooth enamel and are able to bond to the remaining tooth structure.
Composite fillings are the most popular fillings to date. They are natural-looking and made from composite resin. Composite fillings begin soft and they are hand-shaped during the filling process. A blue light is then used to cure the composite to harden it. Composite fillings are very durable and bond well to tooth enamel.
We have various types of fillings and the type you need usually depends on the severity of your case.
Amalgam Fillings: Amalgam fillings, or more commonly known as silver fillings, used to be the most popular fillings many years ago. However, they have fallen out of favour in recent years. Amalgam fillings are a mix of metal alloys, can contain traces of mercury and are dark in colour, which has been viewed unfavourably. Many people tend to replace these silver fillings with tooth-coloured fillings. Porcelain Fillings: Porcelain fillings are used to restore heavily-filled teeth or when a large amount of tooth structure has been lost. They are stronger and more durable than composite white fillings. They are tooth-coloured and also bond to tooth structure. This option is viable for teeth with more than 60% tooth structure loss. Fissure Seals: Sometimes our molar teeth have deep pits and fissures, making it hard for the bristles of our toothbrush to clean, resulting in a breeding ground for bacteria to cause decay or cavities. Fissure seals are dental sealants used to fill the pits and fissures, in order to act as a barrier against plaque, bacteria, and food particles.
Here are some common signs and symptoms that can indicate the presence of a cavity and the need for a filling:
Tooth pain (particularly when biting or chewing)
Increased tooth sensitivity
Visible hole or mark on the tooth that could potentially be a cavity
Stained teeth (black, brown or white spots on teeth)
It is important to note that the absence of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that tooth decay is not present and that a filling is not required. Smaller cavities may not cause pain or discomfort initially, which is why you need regular dental check-ups to detect and treat cavities and other dental problems before they become painful dental conditions that are costly to treat.
Prior to any dental filling procedure, our dentist will talk to you about your options to determine which filling type would be best suited and how to plan for them.
During your appointment, a local anesthetic will be administered to the affected area to numb the tooth and surrounding structures. The decay will then be removed, usually using a dental drill. Once only a strong and healthy tooth structure remains, the cavity is disinfected and dried before the filling material is placed. The dentist will shape and cure the filling to harden it before checking your bite and ensuring it is comfortable.
It is advised not to eat or drink for 2–3 hours after a filling procedure due to the local anaesthetic. Once the local anaesthetic has worn off, you may experience some sensitivity in the area for a few days. For some people, it can take a couple of weeks for a filling to settle down.
If you experience any pain or if the filling does not feel right, please see your dentist as soon as possible.
Depending on which type of filling you opt for, fillings can last up to 12 years. Fillings are placed under constant stress and movement from eating or even grinding, and this can cause fillings to wear away faster. When a filling is no longer in good condition, it can result in further decay, cracks, or fractures. Therefore, it is important to visit your dentist regularly for oral hygiene maintenance to help extend the life of your fillings.
The cost of dental fillings can vary depending on several factors. These include the type of filling material used, the location of the tooth, and the complexity of the treatment.
To get an accurate estimate of the cost, it is vital to consult with one of our skilled dentists. We will assess your unique condition, discuss the most suitable filing material and provide you with a cost estimate based on your individual needs.
We also provide flexible dental payment plans. Your oral health is an investment and our dentists can help you find the right solution that fits both your budget and your smile so that you get the quality dental care you need without any compromise.
At Purity Dental, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional oral health care that goes beyond the ordinary. Our team of experienced and caring dental professionals is here to make sure you receive the best care. Keeping up with the latest advancements in dental technology is a priority for us.
From general dentistry to specialised treatments like orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, preventative dentistry, dental emergency services and more, we offer a wide range of dental solutions under one roof.
Your smile matters and so do you. Come visit us and make your smile the best it can be!
