Cracked or decayed tooth ruining your day? Our dental team is here to provide efficient and effective dental fillings, ensuring your dental health is in great shape.
What Are Dental Fillings?
When a tooth suffers from decay, a hole or cavity is formed in the enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth. If left untreated, the decay can progress, causing pain, sensitivity, and potential tooth loss.
Dental fillings are restorative dental materials used to halt the progression of decay and restore the tooth’s structure and function.
Different Types of Dental Fillings
Each type of dental filling has its own set of characteristics, advantages, and considerations. Let’s explore the most common ones:
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. They are tooth-coloured and can be matched to the natural shade of the tooth, making them a popular choice for visible areas.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, are made of a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They are durable and cost-effective, making them suitable for use in the back teeth.
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings, also called inlays or onlays, are custom-made in a dental laboratory to match the colour and shape of the tooth. They provide a natural appearance and are well-tolerated by gum tissues.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are made of gold alloy and are known for their durability and longevity. They are often used for inlays, onlays, and crowns.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made of acrylic and a type of glass material. They are used in areas with less stress, such as root surfaces or baby teeth.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings are made of porcelain material and are a more aesthetically pleasing option for visible areas. They are durable and resistant to staining.
We Are Preferred
Providers For:
White Fillings at Coolamon Dental Centre in Ellenbrook, WA
At Coolamon Dental Centre in Ellenbrook, WA, we offer white fillings as a natural-looking alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings. Our white fillings are made from materials that resemble the color and texture of your natural teeth, allowing them to blend seamlessly with your smile.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain, it may be necessary to get a filling to protect your tooth. Our team of experienced dental practitioners can assess the cause of your discomfort and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs.
The Dental Filling Procedure
We understand that dental fillings can raise various questions and concerns for patients. To provide clarity and support, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and provided detailed answers.
Examination and Diagnosis
During your dental filling appointment, the dentist will start by examining your teeth, looking for signs of decay, cracks, or other damage that may require a filling. X-rays may be taken to get a comprehensive view of the affected area.
Numbing the Area
Once the dentist identifies the tooth that needs a filling, they will numb the surrounding area using a local anesthetic. This ensures that you feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.
Removal of Decay
With the area numbed, the dentist will use a dental drill or other instruments to carefully remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth. The goal is to create a clean and healthy surface for the filling material.
Cleaning and Preparation
After the decay is removed, the dentist will clean the tooth thoroughly to eliminate any remaining debris or bacteria. The tooth will be prepared for the filling by creating a suitable shape and texture to ensure a secure bond with the filling material.
Placing the Filling
Depending on the type of filling chosen, the dentist will place the filling material in layers, carefully shaping and sculpting it to fit the tooth’s contours.
For tooth-coloured fillings, like composite resin, a special light will be used to harden each layer.
Checking the Bite
Once the filling is in place, the dentist will check your bite to ensure that it feels comfortable and natural. Adjustments may be made to ensure proper alignment.
Polishing and Finishing
After confirming that the filling fits perfectly and does not interfere with your bite, the dentist will polish the filling to achieve a smooth and natural appearance.
Caring for Your Dental Fillings
By following these care tips and maintaining regular dental visits, you can ensure the success and durability of your dental fillings.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can contribute to decay around the filling.
- Refrain from using your teeth to open packages or chew on hard objects like ice or pens. Excessive force can damage or dislodge the filling, compromising its integrity.
- Acidic and sugary foods can erode tooth enamel and lead to decay around the filling edges. Minimise your consumption of such foods and drinks to protect your dental fillings and overall oral health.
- Smoking and tobacco use can contribute to oral health problems, including damage to dental fillings. Quitting or reducing tobacco consumption can improve the longevity of your fillings and overall oral health.
What our patients say
Where to find us
Coolamon Dental Centre
56A Mornington Pkwy,
Ellenbrook WA 6069
Tel: (08) 9296 9970
Booking:
You can book an appointment with us online or call us at 9296 9970. Please note your dental appointment is considered confirmed at the time of booking. We have reserved the time with our dentists, dental assistants and hygienists, especially for you. We will contact you prior to your scheduled appointment with a courtesy reminder but ultimately it is your responsibility to ensure that you arrive on time for your appointment. We know that life can get in the way and if you need to reschedule, please give us at least one business day’s notice and we will be happy to find a time that better suits you.