What is a tooth filling?
A tooth filling is made out porcelain or composite and is used to prevent further damage to a tooth. Most commonly, a filling will be used to seal a tooth off from bacteria to prevent further decay.
Fillings are designed to be virtually invisible by matching the exact colour, shape, texture and translucency of your existing teeth.
What is the treatment process?
Firstly, a numbing spray and/or anaesthetic is applied to the area around the affected tooth. Once the area is numb, the dentist will remove (drill) any decay.
Depending on your individual case, the dentist will fill the area with a porcelain or composite material. From here, the dentist will ensure proper bite and functionality is returned.
How long does treatment take?
Depending on the size and number of fillings needed, most treatments can be completed within a 30 minute to an hour appointment.
How much does a filling cost?
The cost of a filling is largely dependent on the amount of decay present and the number of fillings required. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $150 to $450 for a tooth filling.
If you have private health insurance with dental extras you might be able to claim this amount back. Your level of coverage will determine how much you will be reimbursed. Please check with your private health fund for more information.
Tooth coloured fillings vs amalgam fillings
Amalgam (mercury) fillings remove healthy tooth structure as well as the decay. Moreover, the amalgam filling does not cover the whole cavity. This means, decay can return under the amalgam filling.
Tooth fillings, on the other hand, are less invasive, healthier and blend in with the surrounding teeth. Only the decay is removed from the tooth and resin fills the hole left by decay.
In contrast, amalgam fillings have been known to expand and contract in heat, causing teeth to crack. For this reason, many choose to replace amalgam fillings with tooth coloured fillings.
Tooth fillings at Coastal Dental Care
With locations across South-East Queensland and northern NSW, we can help you with your dental care needs. Ask us about our tooth filling treatments today.