Dental Fillings

We are a mercury-free practice. However, many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are esthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.

What Are Dental Fillings Used For?

Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, minor fractures or wear. After the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, the filling material restores the tooth’s structure, function and appearance.

Fillings help to:

• Stop further decay
• Restore normal chewing function
• Protect the inner tooth structure
• Prevent sensitivity
• Maintain natural tooth shape

Early treatment with a filling is almost always simpler, quicker, and more affordable than waiting until the decay has progressed. If decay is left too long, it can reach the nerve of the tooth at which point a root canal treatment may be required rather than a simple filling. This is why regular check-ups are so important for catching problems early.

Signs You May Need a Filling

Tooth decay does not always cause obvious pain, particularly in its early stages. Knowing the warning signs can help you seek treatment promptly, before a small cavity becomes a larger and more costly problem. Here are the most common signs that you may need a filling.

1. Toothache or Spontaneous Pain

A persistent or recurring ache in a tooth, whether dull or sharp, is one of the most common indicators that decay has progressed to the point where a filling is needed. Pain that appears without an obvious cause, such as biting or temperature, can suggest that the decay is reaching closer to the nerve of the tooth, making early treatment all the more important.

2. Sensitivity to Hot, Cold, or Sweet Foods and Drinks

If you experience a sharp or lingering sensitivity when consuming hot drinks, cold food, or sugary items, this can be a sign that the enamel of the tooth has been compromised by decay. When the protective outer layer of the tooth is weakened, the inner layers become more exposed and reactive to temperature and sugar changes.

3. Visible Holes or Dark Spots on the Tooth

In some cases, you may be able to see a cavity yourself. Dark spots, discolouration, or a visible pit or hole on the surface of a tooth are clear visual indicators that decay is present. Even if the tooth is not causing pain, visible decay should be assessed by your dentist as soon as possible, as the damage will worsen over time without treatment.

4. Food Getting Caught in the Same Spot

If you find that food consistently becomes trapped in a particular area between or on your teeth, this could indicate a cavity or a gap created by early decay. A healthy tooth surface should not routinely trap food in the same location, so this is worth mentioning to your dentist at your next appointment.

5. A Rough or Chipped Tooth Surface

Running your tongue across your teeth can sometimes reveal a rough patch, chip, or uneven surface that was not there before. This can indicate that part of the tooth has broken away due to decay or that an existing filling has cracked or worn down and needs to be replaced.

6. A Cracked or Lost Filling

If you already have fillings in your teeth, it is important to monitor them over time. Fillings do not last forever and can crack, chip, or fall out with age. A damaged or missing filling leaves the tooth exposed and vulnerable to further decay, so prompt replacement is essential.

When to See Your Dentist

• If you notice any of the above signs, contact our Lane Cove practice on (02) 8294 0090 to book an appointment.
• Even if you are not experiencing any symptoms, regular check-ups allow your dentist to detect early decay with X-rays and examinations before it becomes visible or painful.
• Early treatment with a filling is almost always simpler, quicker, and more affordable than waiting until the decay has progressed to the point where a crown or root canal treatment is required.

Disadvantages of Silver fillings

Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and lets cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split.

Silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak and cause stains on your teeth and gums.

Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with Tooth-Colored Restorations.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin onlays are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.

Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contain fluoride this can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums!

The result is a beautiful smile!

Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration

You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays) . This process requires two appointments.

Your First Appointment:

1. The old filling is removed along with any additional decay.
2. An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.
3. A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.

At the Lab: A resin is carefully placed into the model of your teeth. It is then designed to look natural.

Your Second Appointment:

1. The temporary onlay is removed.
2. A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
3. Dental bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
4. The tooth is then polished.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are dental fillings used for? Fillings are used to repair teeth damaged by decay, minor fractures, or wear. They restore the tooth’s structure and function, stop further decay, and can prevent the need for more complex treatments like root canals or crowns.

How do I know if I need a filling? Common signs include toothache, sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, visible dark spots or holes on a tooth, food consistently getting caught in the same spot, or a rough and chipped tooth surface. However, decay doesn’t always cause pain, so regular check-ups are the best way to catch problems early.

What is the difference between silver and tooth-coloured fillings? Silver (amalgam) fillings are durable but contain mercury, can corrode over time, and may cause staining. They also expand and contract with temperature, which can weaken the tooth. Tooth-coloured (resin) fillings are bonded directly to the tooth for a stronger, more natural-looking result and contain fluoride to help prevent future decay.

Are silver fillings safe? While silver fillings have been widely used for decades, they do contain mercury and can corrode or leak over time. We are a mercury-free practice and offer tooth-coloured restorations as a safer and more aesthetically pleasing alternative.

Can I replace my old silver fillings? Yes. Silver fillings can be safely replaced with tooth-coloured restorations. The process involves two appointments — the first to remove the old filling and take an impression, and the second to bond and polish the new restoration.

How long do fillings last? Fillings do not last forever. Over time they can crack, chip, or fall out, leaving the tooth exposed to further decay. Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor existing fillings and replace them when needed.

How do I book an appointment? Contact our Lane Cove practice on (02) 8294 0090 to book a consultation or check-up.

Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!

For dental fillings and other services in Lane Cove, contact us on 02 9418 6102.