Dental filling cost & treatment Melbourne

Dental Fillings

DENTAL FILLINGS & RESTORATIONS

What is a dental filling?

Dental fillings, also known as dental restorations, are frequently used to fill holes or dental cavities in the teeth. Dental fillings are often called restorations as they are designed to restore the function and aesthetics of your teeth in your mouth. Several materials can be used for dental restorations. An MC Dental dentist can assist in finding a suitable option for you. Common dental restorations include front tooth dental fillings, temporary dental fillings, fractured or chipped dental fillings, and dental fillings for children.

Dental filling in Melbourne

Different types of dental restorations

There are several types of dental filling & restorations.

Dental restorations can be made of composite resin (white fillings), amalgam (silver/mercury fillings), porcelain, and gold. Each type of dental restoration/filling has its purpose in dentistry, and it is best to discuss which type of restoration is best for your specific situation.

Composite resin teeth restorations are very common as they offer a robust, cost-effective, aesthetic, and same-day solution for many dental issues. Amalgam restorations also provide a strong dental restoration, however, are silver/grey in appearance and as such, do not look aesthetic in your mouth.

Other types of dental restorations include porcelain and gold restorations. These options are stronger than composite resin and amalgam, which often used in many situations as they can offer a better long term prognosis to some teeth.

As each person has a unique set of teeth, it is advisable to discuss what type of dental filling is best suited to your situation.

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Dental restoration Melbourne

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How are dental restorations done?

During the initial consultation, your dentist will discuss your options. X-rays may be required at this stage. Your dentist will give you a rough indication of how long the dental restoration will take so you can prepare for the procedure at your next visit.

During a dental restoration procedure, you should allow at least one hour in surgery. Before filling cavities, your dentist will give you an anaesthetic to reduce discomfort during the process. Next, your dentist will remove the decay in the tooth and replace it with a dental filling. Your mouth may remain numb for a few more hours. There are not any major risks associated with dental restorations. However, we recommend that you contact MC Dental if you experience any discomfort post-surgery.

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FAQ -Dental Fillings

How much is a filling?

Dental fillings play a critical role in addressing dental issues such as a broken tooth or chipped teeth. The cost of a dental filling, (also referred to as a direct restoration cost) is determined based on the size of the filling required. In your itemized invoice, you can expect to see it listed as an ‘x amount surface adhesive restoration.’ This classification is due to the fact that each cavity varies in size, and specific considerations are taken into account to create a personalized filling or restoration for you. Factors such as the position of the affected tooth and the type of filling used are also important in determining the cost. As a result, the price of a dental filling can vary.

Do your dental payment plans cover fillings?

Yes. Our dental payment plans provide coverage for dental restorations, including dental fillings. We offer affordable tooth replacement options through Zip, ensuring accessibility for our patients.

For more information about payment plan visit Zip payment plans page.

Why do you need dental fillings?

Teeth fillings provide a quick, conservative, and convenient solution for addressing various dental problems, including cavities, teeth wear, and dental cosmetics. While they offer excellent versatility, it’s important to note that they are not the only option available. It is advisable to consult with an oral health professional to explore and discuss all the available treatment options best suited to your specific dental needs.

What should I do if my filling comes loose or falls out?

If your dental filling becomes loose or falls out, it is essential to seek assistance from your dentist as soon as possible. Ignoring this issue can lead to various dental complications, including food packing and further eruption of the opposing tooth. These problems can escalate and result in more significant oral health issues that are often harder to resolve and may require expensive treatments. Don’t delay in getting professional help for your loose or lost dental filling. Until you see your dentist, please try to do the following: Keep the area clean, limit eating or chewing on the affected area, choose softer foods and avoid extreme temperatures.

How long is a dental filling procedure?

Dental filling procedures are generally quick, but the duration can vary depending on factors such as the size & location of the cavity and the type of dental material used. On average, dental fillings can usually take anywhere between10 minutes to 1 hour.

Do you offer temporary tooth fillings for a chipped tooth?

Yes, we provide temporary dental fillings for broken or chipped teeth. Temporary dental fillings are typically used in emergency situations or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, with the intention of replacing the filling in the near future. It is advisable to consult with your dentist to address your concerns, who will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

Is dental filling painful?

Dental fillings are typically performed with the administration of local anaesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience for patients. However, for small fillings, local anaesthesia may not always be necessary. Dentists are aware of patients’ concerns about pain during dental procedures and strive to provide a gentle and pain-free experience. They make every effort to minimize discomfort and prioritize patient comfort throughout the procedure.

How long do teeth hurt after fillings?

Tooth sensitivity is not an uncommon occurrence following the placement of a dental filling. The sensitivity may manifest as discomfort when applying pressure, exposure to air, consuming sweet foods, or encountering temperature changes. Good news is, in most cases, the sensitivity resolves naturally within a few weeks. During this period, it is better to avoid triggers that cause the sensitivity and contribute to discomfort.

Can dental fillings break?

Unfortunately, yes. Dental fillings can deteriorate due to tooth decay, grinding, or wear & tear. However, by ensuring regular monitoring and adopting proper care practices, you can extend the lifespan of your dental fillings.

How long will dental restorations last?

The lifespan of a dental restoration depends on various factors and can vary depending on the type of restoration. Dental fillings, in general, can last up to 10 years or more with proper care. However, other restorations such as dental crowns, bridges, or dental implants can have longer lifespans, ranging from 10 to 15 years or even more. The longevity of these restorations is influenced by factors such as the materials used, oral hygiene practices, and the patient’s overall dental health. It’s recommended to consult with your dental professional to obtain a more accurate prognosis regarding the lifespan of specific dental restorations based on your individual circumstances.

Can children get dental fillings?

Absolutely. It’s crucial to prioritize oral health in children, dispelling the misconception that baby teeth don’t require fillings since they will eventually fall out anyway. In reality, baby teeth play a vital role in a child’s development. Premature loss of baby teeth can lead to difficulties with eating, resulting in nutrition issues and potential future orthodontic complications. Dental professionals emphasize the importance of fillings if needed in baby teeth to prevent further damage and infections, as they help halt decay from spreading and causing more significant harm in the future.

Where can I get a dental restoration in Melbourne?

MC Dental has 6 locations in Melbourne: Westfield Doncaster dental clinic, Melbourne Central dental clinic, Docklands dental clinic, Glen Waverley dental clinicBrighton dentist clinic and Highpoint dentist. Our professional dentist team can assist you with dental restorations 7 days a week.

We offer a range of dental services to suit your individual needs and concerns, from general check-ups and cleans to cosmetic dentistry, porcelain veneers, dental implants, teeth whitening and orthodontics. Our experienced and caring team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and relaxed environment.

What are the alternatives of dental fillings?

Apart from conventional fillings, your dentist may recommend alternative options such as porcelain crowns or gold crowns (commonly known as teeth caps) or onlays (in essence a ½ or ¾ crown). These alternatives provide different characteristics that may better suit your specific dental needs and condition.