Fillings are the most common dental procedure, with many people needing a filling placed at some point in their life. A dental filling can help treat a cavity and strengthen a tooth that has decayed slightly. Learn more about the different types, how they are placed, and what you need to do to look after them.
What is a filling?
A tooth filling is a dental treatment used to help a tooth affected by minor decay, restoring structure and health. The process involves removing decay in a tooth and filling the resulting hole — or cavity — with durable material to support the tooth structure and avoid more decay occurring.
Types of fillings
A dental filling can be made from a variety of materials, each with a different set of advantages at play.
Amalgam fillings
Combining metals including silver, copper, and mercury, dental amalgam is a durable mixture and the most traditional type of filling. However, they have progressively fallen out of use as other materials have become more common. An amalgam filling is strong and lasting, but they don’t match natural tooth colour like other materials do. Amalgam is being phased out as it contains Mercury, which has been linked to many disease processes including dementia.
Gold fillings
The other main metal used in fillings is gold, often used in combination with copper. Gold is often the most expensive option, but is likely to be incredibly strong and last for an extended period. Having a gold filling placed often requires multiple visits to the dentist.
Porcelain or ceramic fillings
A porcelain filling, or general ceramic filling, is highly durable and stain-resistant, making a good choice for larger restorations or areas of the mouth where there is a lot of regular pressure from chewing or biting. Ceramics also blend well with natural tooth colour, but a ceramic or porcelain filling can be as expensive as gold.
Composite fillings
Composite resin fillings may be the most common type in modern dentistry, combining affordability and great aesthetics. Made by mixing fine glass and plastic, composite resin can be matched to your existing teeth for a seamless appearance. However, composite may be less durable and require a replacement sooner, which is why they are typically cheaper.
Temporary filling
Dentists may opt to use temporary fillings when you are having a dental procedure treating something more than minor decay. A temporary filling keeps your tooth from harm while you await a final restoration like a dental crown. These are only intended to be a placeholder before a more permanent treatment.
When do you need a filling?
Whenever your tooth has minor to moderate decay, it needs a filling to restore health and prevent further erosion. Unfortunately, you might not always know when you have a tooth that needs a filling. The only way to know for sure is to have a dentist examine your teeth closely and take an x-ray. This is how they can check for decay and how severely your tooth has degraded.
There are some signs to look out for that can indicate the presence of a cavity. These include tooth pain and aches, sensitivity to pressure or hot and cold temperatures, as well as any visible holes. The first sign of decay is usually a white spot on the tooth, appearing near the gum line. Decay can still occur without a patient feeling any symptoms, which is why visiting the dentist regularly is so important.
Unfortunately, a filling will not be able to adequately treat decay when the tooth is heavily degraded. This leads to even more pain and potential infections, and requires more thorough and complex treatment, including crowns or extractions.
Tooth filling process
Getting a filling is done under local anaesthetic, which numbs your mouth and prepares the area to be worked on. From there, the dentist uses a drill or abrasion instrument to remove any elements of decay and prepare a surface. This may involve removing some portion of the enamel and cleaning the cavity to ensure it is free of bacteria and debris.
Once your tooth is sufficiently prepared, your dentist applies special dental adhesive to hold it in place, before placing the material. Depending on the material, it may need to harden under a laser light. The material will be moulded to closely resemble the shape of your natural tooth.
How long does a filling take?
Dental filling procedures usually take around 15 to 20 minutes. However, they can be longer if the area being treated is large, or depending on the material being used. The process of getting a filling using gold or porcelain often requires two visits: at the first, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth to create the filling, before placing it in the next visit.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Having a tooth filled should not cause any pain more than a potential minor sting when the local anaesthetic begins to work. In the filling process itself, the anaesthetic works to prevent you from feeling anything except a bit of pressure. This may lead to a little discomfort, but your dentist always works with you to make it as comfortable as possible.
Aftercare
To ensure your filling lasts as long as possible, there are a number of aftercare tips to look after it and keep your overall oral health in good shape.
Hygiene and regular check ups
Keeping up your regular dental routine will prevent more decay from occurring in your teeth. This includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing, which removes any excess food from your teeth and prevents decay. Regularly visiting the dentist will also ensure they can keep track of the health of your teeth, and be better prepared to deal with any issues as they arise.
Pain and sensitivity
It is normal to experience some tooth pain after a filling, including discomfort and sensitivity in the affected areas for up to a week after the filling is placed. This can be treated by over-the-counter pain relief medication. If your tooth filling pain or discomfort continues for longer than a week, return to the dentist so that they can check for any more significant issues or reshape the filling to fit more cleanly.
Can you eat after a filling?
It’s important to watch what you eat after a filling. We recommend opting for soft and smooth foods, including smoothies, scrambled eggs, yoghurt, mashed potatoes or soup. It is best to avoid foods that are hard or chewy, including nuts, caramel, hot candy or tough meats. If you are unsure about any food, speak with your dentist to find out whether it would be safe. You can also check out our explainer on what to eat.
How long does a filling last?
When your teeth are looked after, a filling should last for around 10 years at minimum, with a good chance that it will last much longer. Amalgam and ceramic fillings are typically known to have the longest lifespans, but the main factors affecting longevity are your dental hygiene, eating habits and any damage to the tooth. Going to your regular dental check up will give your dentist the best chance to observe if you require a replacement.
How much does a filling cost?
Most dental fillings typically cost between $150 and $450, but each tooth filling cost will depend on factors including the size and location of the cavity, as well as the type of material used. A gold or porcelain fillings is typically the most expensive, while an amalgam or composite tooth filling is usually more affordable.
Are fillings covered by health insurance?
Depending on your coverage, some or all of your cost will be covered by insurance under general dentistry. It is always important to check with your provider prior to receiving a treatment. Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover the cost of fillings for adults. However, it can cover the cost for children or minors under the age of 18, but this benefit is income tested.
Quality tooth fillings at Oakleigh
Getting a tooth filling done at Oakleigh Dental ensures you will receive an effective and safe treatment, delivered by passionate and caring professionals. Book an appointment today to find out how we can help you find your best smile!
