Dr Steven Krajewski and the Mount Annan Dental team are specialists in complex and simple dental procedures, including dental fillings, which are used to replace natural tooth structure when it becomes fractured, broken, or damaged by tooth decay. Dental fillings fix your tooth so it looks and works at its best.

When a dental filling is needed, there are different materials that we can use to fix the tooth. Each material has advantages and disadvantages, and there are different factors that can influence which one is used. Some factors include where the tooth is located in the mouth, how the teeth bite together, and how big or small the filling will be.

We’ll give you advice on dental filling options, and what kind of dental filling is best for you, as it can be different for each tooth:

1. Amalgam: This silver-coloured filling has been reliably used by dentists for over 150 years. It’s composed of mercury, silver, copper, zinc, and tin, offering durability and outstanding longevity.

2. Composite Resin: A tooth-coloured or white filling material suitable for both front and back teeth. Composite resin is often used to repair decayed or broken teeth and for cosmetic treatments like veneers.

3. Glass-Ionomer Cement (GIC): GIC is another tooth-coloured option, though not as strong as composite resin. It contains fluoride and serves multiple purposes, including fissure sealants and temporary fillings.

4. Gold and Porcelain Inlays: These fillings are crafted outside the mouth and then bonded to the tooth cavity. They offer strength and durability, commonly used for inlays.

5. Fissure Sealants: Ideal for preventing food and bacteria from accumulating in the grooves of back teeth, fissure sealants consist of a thin layer of dental filling material.

6. Temporary Fillings: Temporary fillings are used when the filling material needs to be removed soon or at a subsequent appointment. They are also used for emergency dental care and during root canal treatments.

How will you feel after the dental filling?

After a dental filling, the treated tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, or when biting. This is called post-operative sensitivity. The sensitivity should go away after a few days. Sometimes, it can last 1 or 2 weeks. If the sensitivity doesn’t go away or becomes more painful, please return to Mount Annan Dental for further investigation and action.

How long will your fillings last?

Fillings don’t last forever. They can become worn, chipped, cracked, or may change colour.

The amount of time a filling lasts also depends on how well you look after it. It’s important to floss and brush your teeth twice every day.

Mount Annan Dental has many filling material options, and will advise you on the best one to fix your tooth. Keep visiting us for regular check-ups so that we can monitor your fillings, and both detect and treat any issues before they become more serious. At Mount Annan Dental, we’re committed to fixing your current dental problems, and being proactive about the future of your teeth and oral health.