Tooth Fillings Springvale

When a tooth becomes damaged due to decay or breakage, there’s a possibility that the tooth’s nerve endings might become exposed, which can lead to severe bursts of aching tooth pain at any random moment. One of the most common and effective ways to prevent the exposure of nerves and fill unwanted holes in teeth that can lead to further decay is with the use of dental fillings. At Springvale Dental Smiles, we offer a range of options for tooth fillings, including amalgam and composite fillings.

What Are Tooth Fillings Made Of?

Dental fillings can be made of a number of different materials, including:

  • Dental amalgam (‘silver’ fillings)
  • Composite resin (‘tooth-coloured’ fillings)
  • Glass-ionomer cement
  • Gold (rarely used)
  • Porcelain

 

Silver fillings were the most common even just a few decades ago, however, the natural composite resin ‘tooth coloured’ filling has understandably become the favoured option among most patients. Nevertheless, each option has its advantages and disadvantages. It’s best to discuss these with your dentist in order to arrive at an informed decision.

How Are Dental Fillings Placed?

The process of having a filling placed in your tooth involves the dentist drilling away any decay that’s present, ensuring you remain comfortable with the aid of a local anaesthetic. Once the decayed portion of the tooth has been removed, the hole in the tooth is cleaned and dried, ready for one of the dental filling material to be placed in the tooth cavity.

Do Teeth Fillings Hurt?

Your level of discomfort will largely depend on how you feel about the anaesthetic needle, as once that has been administered, the process of having the filling placed in the tooth does not hurt. You may experience minor discomfort once the anaesthetic wears off.