Dental Fillings & Restorations in Sydney
Repair a Tooth With the Right Restoration
A filling can repair a tooth affected by decay, a small fracture or damage to an existing restoration. The aim is to preserve usable tooth structure and restore its shape and function. Sensitivity has several possible causes, so an examination is needed before deciding whether a filling will help.
At Sydney Dental Veneers | Cosmetique Dental, we assess the size and position of the damage, the remaining tooth and your bite. We then explain suitable materials and whether a filling, onlay, crown or another approach is appropriate.
Which Filling Materials Are Available?
We offer tooth-coloured restorative options. Material choice depends on the location and depth of the cavity, the forces on the tooth and how much healthy structure remains. Composite resin and glass ionomer have different uses; a larger damaged area may need an onlay or crown. Your dentist will explain the recommendation before treatment.
How Does Cavity Size Affect the Choice?
Small cavities
For selected small cavities or areas near the gum, glass ionomer cement may be considered. It bonds to tooth structure and releases fluoride, but it is less resistant to wear than some alternatives. Your dentist will assess whether it suits the location and biting forces.
Small to medium cavities
Composite resin is a tooth-coloured material used for many fillings. It is shaped and bonded to the tooth, then polished and checked against your bite. It can wear, stain or chip, so cleaning and regular reviews remain important.
Larger cavities
When substantial tooth structure is missing, an onlay or crown may offer more appropriate support than a direct filling. We will compare the materials, tooth preparation, appointments and fees for the options relevant to your tooth.
What Does a Filling Treat?
Decay develops when acids produced by plaque bacteria damage tooth structure. It may progress without noticeable symptoms. If it reaches the inner pulp, treatment can become more complex and may involve root canal treatment or extraction.
A filling restores the area after decay is removed where this is appropriate. Your dentist will assess the extent of damage and discuss a suitable material. Daily oral care and follow-up visits help protect the restored tooth.
What Happens During a Filling?
When needed, local anaesthetic numbs the tooth and surrounding area. The dentist removes decay, prepares and cleans the cavity, then places and shapes the chosen filling. The bite is checked before you leave. Some sensitivity may occur afterwards; contact the practice if pain persists or the bite feels uneven.
Compare Dental Filling Materials
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam is a metal-coloured filling material used in many existing restorations. Its appearance differs from tooth-coloured materials.
An existing amalgam filling does not automatically need replacement. Your dentist will assess its condition, the surrounding tooth and your concerns before recommending any treatment.
Ask us about tooth-coloured options and the benefits and risks of replacing an existing filling. Unnecessary replacement can remove additional tooth structure.
Glass Ionomer Cement
Glass ionomer cement bonds to tooth structure and releases fluoride.
It can be useful in selected cavities or as a lining beneath another restoration. Its suitability depends on the tooth, cavity location and decay risk.
It is generally less resistant to wear than composite or ceramic materials. The dentist will explain whether it is intended as a temporary or longer-term restoration and how it will be reviewed.
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin is a tooth-coloured material used to restore many small and medium areas of damage.
It is placed in the prepared tooth, hardened and shaped to restore the tooth’s contours. The material and shade are selected with the surrounding teeth in mind.
Composite fillings can wear, stain, chip or develop leakage around their edges. Larger cavities need careful assessment because an onlay or crown may provide more suitable support.
Sydney Dental Veneers | Cosmetique Dental
Plan Your Dental Care
Use our price guide to explore dental care costs, then ask for a written estimate tailored to your needs. Your treatment options and fees will be explained before you decide.
Related at Sydney Dental Veneers: our Sydney veneer clinic
