Composite resin fillings repair
and restore your teeth
If your teeth have reached that time when repairs are necessary, you’re in need of some restorations or fillings. At The Dentist at 70 Pitt Street, we use composite resin for most of our fillings. This resin is placed directly into the tooth and sets immediately, so you can eat after your visit. We guarantee our resin fillings for five years.
For peace of mind, choose longer-lasting, indirect fillings
Occasionally, we may advise you to have a filling made out of more durable materials, such as ceramic or gold. These indirect fillings (or ‘inlays’ or ‘onlays’) are made externally by a local laboratory. These types of fillings are completed in two visits, two to three weeks apart. Indirect fillings require less maintenance than resin fillings and last longer, so we guarantee them for 10 years.
After the filling
Following treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive to things like pressure, cold air, sweet foods, or changes in temperature for a few days. If this persists, Let us know so the cause can be investigated.
When good fillings go bad
Constant wear and tear can cause fillings to wear, chip, or crack, opening the seal between the tooth and the filling, and allowing in food particles and decay-causing bacteria. However, if you’re seeing our team regularly, they’ll look after this before it becomes serious.
An array of filling materials
When a filling is required there is a variety of materials that can be used, all of which have unique properties and advantages. Some factors which influence the type of material to be used will be the type of tooth, the strength requirements, and the way your teeth bite together. Your dentist will give you advice on what is appropriate for your situation.
Amalgam
Amalgam is a durable material but requires more of the tooth to be removed, and it can blacken with age. While amalgam is increasingly giving way to tooth-colored filling materials such as resin, it is still in use, safe, and there is no need to replace your amalgam fillings just for the sake of it.
Composite resin
Composite resin is a commonly used white or tooth-coloured filling material. It can be “glued” to the surface of the tooth, and a matching tooth colour can be picked so that the filling is almost invisible. On the other hand, the composite resin material is more difficult to use, which makes the restoration a bit more expensive when compared with amalgam.
Glass-ionomer cement
Glass-Ionomer Cement (GIC) is also tooth coloured. However, it is not as durable and strong as composite resin; although it does bond well to the tooth and it has some decay-preventing abilities. Glass-ionomer cement is often used for the areas of the tooth where there is not much biting force, and also to fill baby teeth.
Gold & Porcelain
Gold fillings tend to be the most durable over the long-term. Ceramic fillings are both strong and able to be matched to your tooth colour to produce a very long-lasting and aesthetic filling. Both gold and porcelain fillings take longer to prepare and manufacture, meaning more appointments and more cost.
Temporary fillings
Short-term (‘temporary’) fillings may be used when multiple appointments on a tooth are required, including if there is insufficient time to complete the treatment in one visit or during emergency treatment.
Crowns
Dr. Walsh and Dr. Carroll may restore your tooth with a crown rather than a filling. Usually made of gold or porcelain, they’re a customised tooth-shaped cover designed to protect the structure of the tooth. These are often used where a large filling needs to be replaced but where there’s not enough tooth left to support a filling.
Read and see how we take images of your teeth to assess them.
Source:
- ADA: 21.10.2020 https://www.ada.org.au/Your-Dental-Health/Adults-31-64/Fillings
Our restorative treatment care services
Learn more about our range of dental services:
Why Choose Us
There are of course lots of reasons you should choose to book an appointment
with The Dentist at 70 Pitt Street, but we’ve narrowed it down:
- We offer numbing gel when you get your teeth cleaned.
- We send you a calendar invite so your appointments are in your Work Diary. As well as a reminder the day before.
- You can choose the flavour of polish and fluoride, not everyone loves mint.
- You can listen to your podcast or tunes when you’re having treatment.
- We have appointments before 9 am and after 5 pm as well as on Saturdays to suit you.
- We’re one of the only dental practices in Sydney with a full time in-house dental hygienist dedicated to the prevention of tooth and gum disease.
- We aim to be the greenest dentist in Sydney and we have a strong sense of community.
- We have a range of payment options including HICAPS & payment plans.
- You get to take home a new soft toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste at each of your preventative visits.
FAQs
What are fillings made of?
Fillings are materials used to restore a damaged tooth caused by cavities. They are commonly made of metal (amalgam), tooth-colored resin composites, ceramics, or gold. The choice of material depends on various factors, such as location, cost, durability, and aesthetics.
What is a cavity in a tooth?
A cavity is a hole that forms in a tooth due to decay caused by bacteria-producing acid that erodes the enamel and dentin. If left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. Regular oral hygiene and dental checkups can help prevent cavities.
Can fillings go bad?
Yes, fillings can go bad over time and may need to be replaced. Causes include wear and tear, decay, improper placement, and changes in the tooth’s structure. Regular dental check-ups can help identify and address problems with fillings before they cause more serious damage.
What does a tooth filling look like?
A tooth filling can either be silver or tooth-colored, depending on the type of filling material used. The filling will appear as a smooth surface that blends in with the tooth, restoring its shape and function. Fillings can also be shaped and contoured to match the surrounding tooth structure.
What color are the fillings now?
Fillings can be either silver (amalgam) or tooth-colored (composite resin). Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite resin, are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a more natural and aesthetic look compared to silver fillings. The color of the filling is matched to the surrounding teeth for a seamless appearance.
How tooth filling is done?
A tooth-filling procedure involves cleaning the cavity and filling it with amalgam or composite resin, which is then shaped and polished to match the tooth’s contour. It typically takes one appointment and can be done with local anesthesia.
What are dental fillings made of?
Dental fillings are made of materials used to restore a damaged tooth caused by decay. Common fillings include metal (amalgam), tooth-colored resin composites, ceramics, or gold. The choice of material depends on factors such as location, cost, durability, and appearance.
What is resin filling?
A resin filling is a tooth-colored composite material used to repair decayed or damaged teeth. It’s molded and cured to match the tooth’s shape and color, creating a durable and aesthetically pleasing repair. Resin fillings are a popular alternative to metal fillings.
How do they do fillings on teeth?
The filling procedure involves removing the decayed part of the tooth, cleaning the cavity, and filling it with the chosen material (amalgam or composite resin). The filling is then shaped and polished to match the tooth’s natural contour. The process usually takes one appointment and can be done under local anesthesia.
How does a tooth filling look like?
A filling procedure involves removing the decayed part of the tooth, cleaning the cavity, and filling it with the chosen material (amalgam or composite resin). The filling is then shaped and polished to match the tooth’s natural contour. The process usually takes one appointment and can be done under local anesthesia.
How much is a cavity filling?
The cost of a cavity filling varies based on location, size, material, and insurance. Average costs range from $250 to $350, with tooth-colored composite resin being more expensive than silver amalgam fillings. Insurance coverage varies, so it’s best to check with the provider.
What does a bad filling look like?
A bad filling can show as dark spots, cracks, chips, or loose material. The surrounding tooth may be discolored or sensitive. These indicate a need for replacement, so it’s important to see a dentist promptly to prevent further tooth damage.
How do you know when you need a filling?
You may need a filling for tooth pain/sensitivity, visible holes/cracks, or if your dentist finds decay. Signs include dark spots and rough/different-feeling teeth. If you suspect a filling is needed, see a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
How to deal with cavities?
Deal with cavities through good oral hygiene, regular check-ups and cleanings, the removal of decay by a dentist, and filling the area. In severe cases, a crown or root canal may be needed. Early detection and treatment can help prevent further damage and maintain dental health.
How to know if I need a filling?
Look for signs such as tooth pain or sensitivity, visible holes or cracks, dark spots, and a rough or changed tooth surface. You can also schedule regular dental check-ups for early detection. If you suspect you need a filling, see a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
What kind of fillings do dentists use?
Dentists use two main types of fillings: amalgam (silver) and composite (tooth-colored) resin. Amalgam is durable but visible, while the composite resin is tooth-colored but may require more frequent replacement. The choice of filling material depends on the location and extent of decay, the cost, and the patient’s personal preference.
What are dental fillings made out of?
Dental fillings are made of two main materials: silver amalgam and composite resin. Amalgam is a mixture of metals, while composite resin is a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. The choice of material depends on the location and extent of decay, the cost, and the patient’s personal preference.
How to fill cavities in teeth?
A dental filling procedure involves removing decayed tooth material, cleaning the cavity, and filling it with a chosen material (amalgam or composite resin). The filling is shaped to match the tooth’s natural contour and cured in place. The process usually takes one appointment and can be done with local anesthesia.
Why do we need fillings for teeth?
Fillings are used to restore and repair decayed or damaged teeth. They protect the tooth from further decay, alleviate pain and sensitivity, and help maintain the tooth’s structure and function. Early treatment is important to prevent the spread of decay and preserve the health of the affected tooth.
How are cavities filled?
Cavities are filled by removing the decayed portion and filling the area with a material, such as composite resin or amalgam. The filling is molded and shaped to match the tooth’s natural contour, then cured and polished. This helps restore the function and appearance of the affected tooth.
How long until you can eat after a filling?
You may be able to eat soon after a filling, but it’s best to wait 30 minutes to an hour to allow the filling material to set. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for the first few days, and stick to a soft diet.
*Disclaimer: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you
should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.