Sensitivity
A tooth may react to cold, sweet foods or pressure, although sensitivity has several possible causes.
Repairing tooth decay
Tooth fillings in Edmondson Park
A tooth filling restores structure lost through decay or minor damage by removing unhealthy material, preparing the area and placing a suitable restorative material into the tooth.
Not every early area of decay needs a filling, and not every damaged tooth can be restored with one. The decision depends on whether a cavity has formed, how much structure remains and how the tooth functions under bite pressure.
Assessment before treatmentRecommendations follow an examination and relevant records.
Options explainedBenefits, limitations, stages and likely fees are discussed.
Referral where appropriateYour dentist may recommend specialist or medical care when needed.
Decay can progress beyond the point where a simple filling is enough
Plaque bacteria produce acids that weaken tooth structure. Early changes may sometimes be managed preventively, but once a cavity forms, removing the decay and restoring the tooth can help stop further structural breakdown.
Visible hole or dark area
A change in colour or contour can indicate decay, staining or a failing restoration.
Food repeatedly catching
A cavity, chipped edge or open contact between teeth may trap food and irritate the gums.
Broken or worn filling
Roughness, movement, cracking or pain near an old filling should be assessed.
What to expect
Assessment and planning
Treatment recommendations depend on the findings, your health history and your preferences.
Diagnose the problem
Examine the tooth and use X-rays when indicated to assess depth, nearby structures and restorability.
Remove unhealthy structure
Use local anaesthetic where needed, isolate the area and remove decay or unsupported material.
Restore and check
Place the selected material, shape the tooth and check bite, contact and cleaning access.
Compare the options
The amount of damage guides the restoration
| Option | May suit | Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Preventive care | Early decay without a cavity | Requires risk control and monitoring |
| Direct filling | Small to moderate cavity or minor damage | Longevity depends on size, location and bite |
| Onlay or crown | Larger structure loss or weakened cusps | More extensive preparation and laboratory stages may apply |
| Root canal or extraction | Pulp infection or unrestorable damage | Needed only when the problem extends beyond a filling |
Common questions
Questions about tooth fillings
This page provides general information. A dentist needs to assess your mouth before recommending treatment. Risks, benefits, alternatives and likely costs vary.
How do I know if I need a filling?
A dentist needs to examine the tooth and may recommend an X-ray. Sensitivity or a dark spot does not confirm a cavity on its own.
Are all fillings tooth-coloured?
Composite resin is commonly used for tooth-coloured restorations. Material choice depends on the tooth, cavity size, moisture control, bite and clinical requirements.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Local anaesthetic can numb the tooth during treatment. Some short-term sensitivity may occur afterwards and should be reviewed if it persists or worsens.
How long does a filling last?
Longevity varies with cavity size, material, tooth position, grinding, diet, cleaning and decay risk. Fillings require ongoing review and may eventually need replacement.
Can early decay heal without a filling?
Early enamel changes without a cavity may sometimes be arrested or remineralised with fluoride, improved cleaning and dietary changes. Monitoring is important.
Why might I need a crown instead?
A crown or onlay may be considered when a filling would not adequately protect extensive structure loss, cracks or weakened cusps.
Ask a dentist about tooth fillings
Arrange an assessment to discuss the concern, available options and likely fees.