Tooth Fillings
Tooth Fillings Applecross
A filling is one of the most common dental procedures performed at Epsom Dental Care Applecross. It fixes the damage done by tooth decay. It’s a typically painless procedure and generally takes about an hour.
Tooth fillings can help even out the tooth’s surface and improve the jaw’s biting and chewing function.
Many patients with tooth decay also suffer from sensitivity due to enamel loss, which can also be improved with the placement of a tooth filling.
Types of Fillings
Your Applecross dentist will discuss the materials that can be used to fill your cavity. Some of the most used options include the following:
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are tooth-coloured and are matched to the current aesthetics of teeth. A porcelain filling is indistinguishable from other healthy teeth and, with proper care, can last up to 20 years.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are like porcelain fillings; however, they can last from 5 to 10 years when applied to teeth.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are made in a dental laboratory to fit the tooth cavity and are cemented into place. They are the most expensive type of tooth filling and will require multiple visits. Gold fillings, when well received by the surrounding gum tissue, can last up to 20 years.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings were the most common and most affordable filling material. However, amalgam fillings contain mercury and aren’t commonly used in Australia. For this reason, we don’t offer amalgam fillings at Epsom Dental Care Applecross. Instead, we offer to replace old amalgam fillings with aesthetically-pleasing tooth-coloured fillings.
Filling Cavities: What to Expect
You should expect to be at your Applecross dentist’s office for around an hour. This gives him enough time to take X-rays if needed, talk to you about the procedure and complete the dental work.
Before filling cavities, your Applecross dentist will numb your teeth, gums and surrounding skin to avoid and lessen discomfort during the procedure. Next, he will drill out the decay in the tooth and replace it with a filling material. This process only takes a few minutes.
Once you’re done, your mouth will remain numb for a few more hours. There are no significant risks associated with tooth fillings but be sure to keep your dentist’s contact information in case you have any questions or complications.
The most common use of tooth fillings is to fill a cavity. But tooth fillings can also be used to repair damage caused by teeth grinding or replace part of a broken tooth.
Tooth Fillings in Applecross
Don’t let tooth decay lead to damage to your entire tooth. Treat decay right away with our high-quality tooth fillings for protection and restoration.
The best way to determine whether tooth fillings are right for you is to schedule a dental consultation.
If you have any enquiries about tooth fillings in Applecross, we are happy to answer any questions and book you an appointment. Please contact us today on (08) 9316 0555.
We are located at 729 Canning Hwy in Applecross WA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tooth filling?
A tooth filling restores a hole in a tooth or repairs a chipped tooth and returns it to its original shape. Your Applecross dentist performs the process and uses non-toxic materials that bond to your teeth.
Are tooth fillings safe?
Yes, tooth fillings are safe. However, there is always a risk of sensitivity. Before the procedure any concerns should be discussed with your Applecross dentist to ensure the best choice possible is made for your situation.
Will my tooth hurt after I receive a filling?
Your tooth may feel slightly sensitive after the procedure. Sensitivity is completely normal and usually goes away in a day or two.