Dental Fillings

Initial Consultation and Decay Assessment

The dental filling process commences with a thorough assessment of the patient’s oral health. This examination focuses on identifying any signs of tooth decay, a common issue that leads to cavities. Using advanced diagnostic tools, the dentist evaluates the extent of decay and determines the suitability of dental fillings as a treatment option.

Preparation of the Tooth

Once tooth decay is confirmed, the affected area must be prepared before placing the filling. This involves removing the decayed tissue using specialised dental tools. Care is taken to remove only the decayed or weakened part of the tooth, preserving as much of the original tooth structure as possible. This stage is crucial for preventing the spread of decay and for creating a clean, stable base for the filling.

Choosing the Right Filling Material

Various types of filling materials are available to cater to different needs and preferences.

• Composite Fillings: Their widespread use is attributed to their ability to closely match natural tooth colour. Composed of plastic and fine glass particles, composite fillings are ideal for visible parts of the mouth where maintaining a natural appearance is vital.
• Gold Fillings: Known for their durability and strength, gold fillings are an excellent choice for restoring teeth in areas of intense bite pressure. Although more noticeable than tooth-coloured fillings, they are highly valued for their longevity and wear resistance.
• Tooth-Coloured Fillings: Apart from composite, other tooth-coloured options include ceramic and certain glass ionomer types that provide both aesthetic and functional benefits.

Filling Placement

After the tooth is prepared and cleaned, the selected filling material is meticulously applied in layers. For composite fillings, each layer is hardened using a special light that triggers a curing process to bond the material securely to the natural tooth. This step-by-step application ensures the filling conforms perfectly to the tooth’s original shape and restores its structural integrity.

Finishing Touches

Once the filling is in place, it is shaped and polished to ensure a smooth, comfortable fit within the bite. The final adjustments are crucial to ensure that the restoration feels natural and does not disrupt the patient’s bite or adjacent teeth.

Post-procedure care and Regular Dental Checkups

After receiving dental fillings, patients are advised on how to care for their restored teeth to ensure long-lasting results. This encompasses following good oral hygiene practices and avoiding habits that could damage the fillings. Regular dental checkups are essential, allowing the dentist to monitor the condition of the fillings and the overall health of the mouth.

Dental fillings play a pivotal role in dental restorations, offering a reliable solution for treating tooth decay and preventing further damage to the teeth. At our dental clinic, we are committed to providing high-quality, durable fillings that restore functionality and enhance the aesthetics of our patients’ smiles. By choosing the appropriate material and applying meticulous techniques, we ensure that each patient receives the best possible outcome for their oral health needs.

The lifespan of dental fillings can vary significantly based on the material used, the location of the filling, and a patient’s oral hygiene habits. Generally, dental fillings are expected to last for many years, providing a durable solution to tooth decay and damage.

Material Impact

Different filling materials offer varying degrees of durability. Amalgam fillings, often used for their strength, typically last about 10 to 15 years. Composite fillings, popular for their aesthetic appeal as they match the colour of natural teeth, generally endure for about 5 to 10 years. Gold fillings and porcelain can last even longer, potentially up to 15 to 30 years with proper care.

Factors Affecting Longevity

The durability of a dental filling is also influenced by the location of the filling and the chewing load that the tooth bears. Fillings in teeth that perform extensive chewing, such as molars, may wear out quicker than those in other areas. Additionally, the precision of the filling placement and the patient’s oral hygiene play critical roles in the lifespan of a filling.

Maintenance

To maximise the lifespan of dental fillings, regular dental checkups are essential. During these visits, dentists can check the condition of fillings and address any issues before they lead to further tooth decay or filling failure. Consistent oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, are crucial in maintaining the health of filled teeth and surrounding gums.

By understanding these factors, patients can take proactive steps to ensure their dental fillings last as long as possible, safeguarding their oral health and the investment in their smiles.

Getting a dental filling is generally a stress-free experience, thanks to modern anaesthetics and techniques used during the procedure. Our skilled team is dedicated to ensuring that each patient feels at ease and calm throughout their treatment.

At our Melton dental clinic, we offer services in multiple languages to cater to our diverse community. Our dentists are fluent in English, Vietnamese, Cantonese, and Korean, ensuring that all patients feel comfortable and fully understood during their visits. This multilingual support is crucial, especially when explaining detailed procedures such as dental crowns, teeth whitening, or the steps involved in addressing a dental emergency. By providing language support, we enhance the patient experience and ensure clear communication about their dental care options.

Yes, our clinic is a preferred provider for major insurance companies such as Medibank and BUPA. This affiliation means that patients insured by these companies can receive their dental treatments at optimised costs. Our status as a preferred provider helps simplify the financial process for our patients, allowing them to focus more on their dental health than on the logistics of claims and reimbursements.

Yes, we offer parking for our patients. The parking area is easily accessible and located directly outside the clinic, ensuring hassle-free access for everyone visiting.