Dental Fillings

Australian dentists use amalgam fillings, although their use has become less common in recent years due to the availability of alternative filling materials. Amalgam fillings, a mixture of metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper, have been used for decades in dentistry to treat cavities and restore teeth.

Dental fillings can last anywhere for up to 15 years or more, depending on the filling material used, the location of the filling, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene and dental health. Regular check-ups and good oral care practices can help extend the lifespan of your fillings.

When a cavity is treated with a filling, the decayed portion of the tooth is extracted, which can reduce the tooth’s natural structure. However, the filling material used to replace the removed part helps restore the tooth’s strength and functionality. While there might be a minimal reduction in strength, the overall goal of a filling is to preserve and protect the tooth from further decay and damage.

White fillings offer advantages such as natural appearance and bonding capabilities, but their suitability depends on factors like location and size of the cavity. Other materials, like amalgam, might be more durable for specific situations. It is best to consult with our dentist for personalised recommendations.

Local anaesthesia is used to numb the area during the dental filling process, minimising pain. Some discomfort or sensitivity might occur after the procedure, but it’s usually temporary and manageable.

The duration of the dental filling process can vary depending on the size and complexity of the cavity being filled. Generally, it takes about 20 to 60 minutes to complete a single filling. However, more extensive fillings or multiple cavities may require additional time. We can give you a more accurate estimate based on your dental needs.

Dental fillings can last many years but might eventually break or come loose due to wear and tear, tooth grinding, or decay around the filling. Adopting a good oral care regime and visiting your dentist for regular dental check-ups can prevent these problems and ensure the longevity of your fillings

Dental fillings are commonly used to treat cavities in children’s teeth, just like in adults. Children need proper dental care and treatment to maintain their oral health as they grow. A qualified dentist can recommend appropriate filling materials and procedures based on the child’s age, cavity size, and individual needs.

Watch for signs like pain, sensitivity, visible damage, discolouration, roughness, pain when biting, or recurrence of decay. Regular dental check-ups help monitor fillings and determine if replacement is needed.

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) states dental amalgam is a safe and effective restorative material for dental cavities.

Dental insurance coverage for fillings in Australia can vary widely depending on your specific insurance plan. Some dental insurance plans may cover a part or all of the cost of dental fillings, while others might have limitations or exclusions. Reviewing your dental insurance policy or contacting your insurance provider to know what is covered and what costs you might be responsible for is essential.

The best type of filling depends on factors like cavity location, size, and your preferences. Composite resin (white) fillings are versatile and aesthetic, while amalgam and ceramic fillings offer durability. Our team at Brisbane Dental Clinic will recommend the most suitable option for your needs.

Whether a filling or a crown is better depends on the extent of tooth damage:

• Filling: Used for minor to moderate cavities, fillings are less invasive and preserve more of the natural tooth structure. They are suitable when the tooth’s structural integrity is intact.
• Crown: Crowns are recommended for more extensive damage, like large cavities, fractures, or weakened teeth. They provide excellent coverage and support, enhancing tooth strength and durability.

Dental fillings are not permanent but can last for many years with proper care. Over time, fillings may wear down, crack, or require replacement due to wear and tear, chewing forces, and oral hygiene practices. Regular dental check-ups help monitor the condition of fillings and determine if replacements are needed.

Dental fillings are generally considered safe. The materials used for fillings, such as composite resin, amalgam, ceramics, and others, have been extensively studied and approved by dental and health authorities.

Dental fillings are considered safe during pregnancy. Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is recommended, as hormonal changes will likely increase the chances of cavities and gum disease. If you have a dental problem that requires treatment, including fillings, it’s usually recommended to address it to prevent potential complications.

You can usually eat and drink after a dental filling, but waiting until the anaesthesia wears off completely is recommended to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Additionally, some people might experience sensitivity or discomfort in the filled tooth for a short period after the procedure.

No difference exists between a “white filling” and a “composite filling.” Both terms refer to the same type of dental filling material, a tooth-coloured resin composite used to restore cavities.

Amalgam and metal teeth fillings are gradually being reduced in Australia, with amalgam now used in only 20 per cent of filling procedures since the mid-1990s, and a phase-down rather than a complete phase-out approach has been adopted due to ongoing debates about its safety and efficacy. Instead of amalgam and metal, more aesthetically pleasing and health-conscious materials like composite resins and porcelain are being used for teeth fillings in Australia, providing a safer and more natural-looking alternative. Please don’t hesitate to ask our Brisbane dentists for more information on which teeth filling material is right for you.

Do:

• Wait until the anaesthesia wears off before eating or drinking.
• Follow any specific instructions we provide regarding eating, drinking, and care.
• Choose softer foods initially to avoid discomfort.
• Take any prescribed medications as directed.
• Attend any recommended follow-up appointments.

Don’t

• Chew on the treated area until sensitivity or numbness subsides.
• Consume very hot or cold foods/drinks immediately after the procedure.
• Bite hard or crunchy foods that could damage the filling.
• Neglect oral hygiene.