How long do fillings last in teeth?

On average, you can expect a metal filling to last for about 15 years before needing to be replaced, but the length of time can vary based on several factors, such as if you grind or clench your teeth. Tooth-colored fillings are made from a mixture of fine glass and plastic particles.

Are fillings really painful?

Q: Is it painful to have cavity fillings? No. Your dentist will numb the area and use a numbing gel before injecting a local anesthetic known as Lidocaine. You may feel a bit of a sting, but that's a reaction from the local anesthetic when it starts to block the nerve signals to stop the pain.

What are the 5 types of filling?

1) Composite Filling. Composite resin fillings are made up of a mixture of plastic and glass powder. 2) Amalgam Filling. Amalgam is usually thought of as a silver filling. 3) Ceramic Filling. Ceramic fillings are made of porcelain. 4) Gold Filling. 5) Glass Ionomer Filling.

Dental Filling

If you’re worried you might have cavities or are experiencing pain while you brush and floss, you’ve come to the right place. Tooth pain is usually a result of tooth decay and may require a dental filling. Dental fillings are excellent solutions for restoring your smile and alleviating painful symptoms of cavities.

Dental fillings have been one of the most popular procedures for centuries and are typically a straightforward procedure that’s relatively painless. Below are some common concerns we address regarding dental fillings.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Fillings fix cavities and help restore your tooth’s original shape and condition. A dental filling fills a hole caused by decay and wear and protects the teeth from future damages. If cavities are left untreated, they can lead to more severe problems, such as root damage and infection. Dental fillings are usually only required for large cavities, as your tooth can heal small holes on its own.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Fillings?

There are numerous kinds of dental fillings we provide here at My Family Dental. Our dentist can discuss with you the best filling option to help restore your smile based on your cavity location, allergies, and budget.

Here are the different types of dental fillings:

Composite Fillings

For composite fillings, we use acrylic resin and glass-like materials to fill the hole. Composite fillings look more natural and are highly effective, but they don’t typically last as long as others since they aren’t as durable and are more vulnerable to wear and tear.

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings (also called silver fillings) use a mixture of silver, tin, and copper, creating a durable seal. These fillings are more popular options as they are powerful, and the materials are inexpensive. The only downside to amalgam fillings is that they create a dark colouring in your tooth, which is easily noticeable.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

These fillings are unique because they match your tooth’s colour and bond quickly. Glass ionomer fillings gradually release a fluoride solution that protects your tooth from further decay. Your dentist might recommend glass ionomer fillings if you don’t want your filling to be noticeable. However, they tend to wear down faster and aren’t as reliable as other options.

Porcelain Inlays

Porcelain is a premium option and requires much more preparation than amalgam or composite fillings. One fantastic feature of porcelain is that it naturally matches your tooth’s colour and is highly resistant to stain and general wear.

Gold Inlays

If you’re looking for a long-lasting filling, gold is the way to go. Gold inlays typically require extensive preparation since they are entirely custom. Undoubtedly, gold is the best dental filling option, but it is also the most expensive.

How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost?

The price of dental fillings varies depending on several different factors. Whichever material you choose will be the most considerable influence on the price. For example, if you select a gold filling over amalgam (silver), you can expect to pay more. The average cost for a filling in Australia is between $100 and $300.

If you need a filling right away but can’t afford to pay all at once, we offer payment options with absolutely no interest.

How Does the Dental Filling Procedure Work?

How Does the Dental Filling Procedure Work?
Filling a cavity is one of the fastest procedures in dentistry. Most fillings only take about 15 minutes after all the preparation is done. Here’s a breakdown of the dental filling procedure:

Your dentist applies an anesthetic to numb the affected area so that you won’t feel any pain.
Your dentist will clean out the affected area and remove any decay or debris.
Your dentist applies an acid gel to prepare the tooth for the filling solution.
Your dentist may use a UV light to harden the following solution.
Your dentist finishes the job by polishing and cleaning your new filling.
If necessary, your dentist will check your bite and make any adjustments as necessary (if you’re filling is on the tooth’s surface, for example).

Need a Dental Filling?

If you think you have a cavity and need a filling, reach out to our dental team of My Family Dental today. My Family Dental has dental clinics in Emerald, Bowen, Innisfail, Townsville, Ingham, and Bohle Plains for your convenience. Our dentists have extensive experience filling teeth, and we’d love to help you next. Contact our office today, and we can advise you on which filling option is best for you.