When Are Dental Fillings Necessary?
Sometimes, fillings are absolutely necessary. Without a filling, a damaged tooth can continue to decay leading to infection and more serious oral disease. In this post we explain when fillings are necessary, how they are attached and approximately how much they cost. We examine the types of fillings available, the materials they’re made of and how to care for your teeth after receiving a filling, as well as the rest of your mouth.
Fillings are usually necessary when tooth decay is present or a tooth is damaged due to trauma. During a check-up, a dentist will check your teeth for defects and deformation and will provide advice on what treatment is available for your situation. Prevention with brushing and flossing is definitely better than a cure when it comes to caring for your teeth and gums, however sometimes repair work is absolutely necessary.
How Are Fillings Attached?
How fillings are attached depends on the material used and how much tooth is left. Glue is usually used to attach the filling to the tooth. We describe each different method below.
- Amalgams require slightly more tooth to be removed than has rotted. Amalgams are attached with glue to the hole left by a dentist’s drill. Amalgams are extremely durable and don’t need replacement. However, they can blacken with age.
- A composite resin filling is similarly glued to the surface of a decaying tooth following extraction of the decayed matter. This variety is almost invisible.
- Gold or porcelain fillings, too, require glue to be attached.
- Glass-ionomer cement varieties are adhesive by nature.
The Cost of a Filling
The cost of a filling will vary depending on the material used and the number of sessions required. A tooth filling will cost between $150 and $400 in Sydney. In order of cheapness, amalgams are the most affordable, followed by composite resin, glass-ionomer cement fillings, then gold or porcelain fillings. Gold or porcelain fillings are the most expensive, due to both the expense of the material and the time it takes to make the mould for the filling.
Side-Effects of a Filling
Following attachment of a filling, it’s normal to feel sensitive to pressure, cold air, sugar and changes in temperature. Long-term effects of a filling can include chips and cracks to the material. This is dangerous as it can allow for food particles to settle in between the crack. Dentists will usually identify such problems during routine inspections and will able to apply a remedy.
Crowns are one remedy for fixing cracked or chipped fillings. A dentist will attach the tooth-shaped covering to the hole where the filling used to live to protect the tooth structure.
Contact us Today
For all fillings and other dental work, please contact Sydney Park Dental today. We are open Monday to Friday. Continue reading the Sydney Park Dental blog for more tips about good oral care and hygiene.