Tooth fillings — to stop cracks and cavities in their tracks

Dental fillings are used to fix small holes, a crack, or a cavity in the tooth. Common signs you may need a tooth filling include:

• Tooth sensitivity — especially when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet things
• Pain when chewing or biting
• You can see that your tooth has chipped or cracked
• You’ve damaged or lost a previous tooth filling
• A dark spot or hole in the tooth

Not sure if you need root canal treatment or a filling? A root canal is needed when the infection has reached the pulp (that’s where the nerves and blood vessels are). Symptoms are generally worse when you need a root canal. Pain is often persistent — rather than just when eating. Gums may become tender and swollen. You won’t know which treatment you need until you visit our dentist near you.

If you have severe pain, consider this a dental emergency. Give us a call on (02) 9361 4044. We’ll fix the issue and get you feeling right as rain in a flash.

There are a few different types of tooth filling materials. Here, at Dentistry At The Cross, we most often use composite fillings. These are made from durable resin and are the same colour as your natural teeth. Another popular dental filling is porcelain. Other choices include gold or glass ionomer. Want to know more about the different types of fillings? Take a look at this guide to fillings from the Australian Dental Association.

You’re right. Tooth filling prices can vary. According to Australian Dental Association’s Dental Fees Survey 2022, a simple filling can cost up to $275. For a more complex filling, you may end up paying up to $475. There are several factors that can impact cost. This includes:

• Number of tooth surfaces that need to be filled
• The type of tooth filling (a gold filling can cost up to $1000)
• The complexity of the treatment
• Whether the service includes additional check-ups
• Number of fillings required

In general, dental fillings can last around 10 years. Some restorations (that’s the clinical term for filling) can last as long as 15 years. Amalgam and ceramic fillings, for example, are known to be very durable. Don’t forget though, the life span of your filling depends on how well you look after it (just like with real teeth!). It’s important to brush your teeth twice a day and clean in between each tooth. And don’t forget to have a regular check-up and clean!

In most cases, any sensitivity is minor and temporary. Over-the-counter pain medication is usually enough to ease the sensitivity. If the tooth sensitivity persists, give your dentist a call.

Been putting off getting a filling because you’re worried about the pain? You’re not alone. In some instances, a tooth filling may hurt a little. In most cases though, there’s minimal pain — just a little discomfort. Chat with your dentist Potts Point about the option of sedation or local anaesthetic. Just be mindful, this may increase the tooth filling price.

We recommend avoiding eating for 30 minutes after having your filling. This will allow the dental filling time to set and any numbness (if you had anaesthesia) to wear off. It’s also best to avoid hot and cold foods for a few hours — just in case there’s some initial sensitivity.