Restorative dentistry is concerned with giving you functional, healthy teeth by managing diseases of the tooth.
Thanks to advances in modern dentistry, your teeth can now be restored to look natural too!
Restorations may be required to:
- Treat tooth cavities
- Repair chipped or cracked teeth
- Repair worn down teeth
- Cosmetic concerns
- 10% discount for pensioners.
- FREE* Consult For Cosmetic, Orthdontics, Invisalign, Implant
- Flexible INTEREST FREE* Payment Options
- 10% Off* Treatment Costs for Non-Health Insurance Holders
What are Fillings?
Cosmetic concerns, trauma, Cavities, decay and caries are the primary reasons for fillings in dentistry. Restoring your damaged teeth as soon as possible is critical in protecting your tooth from further damage and more complicated and more costly procedures such as Root Canal Treatment.
The 3 main materials used for fillings are composite resin, glass ionomer cement and amalgam.
Composite Resin:
Composite resins are synthetic resin which are used in dentistry. They have a micro-mechanic property that make them a very suitable restorative material for large and small cavities.
They are aesthetically pleasing and contain Bis-Gma, dimethacrylate monomers (TEGMA, UDMA, HDDMA), a filler material like silica, and a photo-initiator with addition of Dimethylglyoxime to achieve some properties such as flowability. Over the years Composite resins have improved significantly which gives them similar longevity to amalgam. They also come in variety of shades and colour for better aesthetics.
Amalgam:
Amalgam has been used in dentistry for over 150 years. It has been a subject of controversy for many years regarding its toxicity. Amalgam contains mercury, tin, copper and other trace metals which they have been associated with a variety of chronic illnesses. Many studies have been done including one by World health organization in which increased the health risk of amalgam from low to moderate. Therefore, Castle hill dental
care is a amalgam free practice to ensure that your health is not compromised and you are not exposed to any toxic substances. However, we do not recommend you to have your amalgam fillings replaced unless it is necessary to do so.
Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC):
Glass Ionomers cements are used in dentistry as a restorative materials or luting cement.
It is formed by the reaction between silicate powder and polyalkenoate acid. has adhesive property which bonds to tooth structure very well which make them a good candidate as sealant for deep fissures and grooves and also lining of the cavities. However, GIC does not last as long as Composite resin and amalgam.
Inlays and Onlays
With larger cavities, inlays or Onlays can provide a stronger alternative to fillings whilst still ensuring more conservative treatment compared to crowns.
They can be made of different materials including:
composite Resin, porcelain or metal (including gold).
Teeth are prepared in the same way as with fillings but unlike fillings, inlays/onlays are a 2-appointment procedure because they are made outside your mouth at our advanced dental laboratories before being bonded to your tooth.
They can be used to:
- Restore large cavities or cracked teeth
- Replace failing restorations
- Avoid elective root canal for post and core crowns
For more information, please Contact Us NOW!
What to expect when getting your filling, inlay or onlay at Castle Hill Dental Care
CAREFUL PREPARATION
We pride ourselves on providing superior patient centred care and keeping your visit with us comfortable. Your dentist will ensure your tooth is completely numb before removing all the decay.
QUALITY TREATMENT
Our practice uses only tested and proven materials with no or minimal health hazards so YOU can be confident your filling can last and it is safe. That’s why we amalgam free practice.
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Our dentists also always adjust and polish your fillings to ensure they look, feel and function just like your natural tooth and so you get the most out of your new smile.
SMILE WITH CONFIDENCE
We know how important it is for you to get on with your day and you can do just that! Routine visits are recommended to check everything is in order so, schedule your next check-up and help us, help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which option is best for me, filling or an inlay/onlay?
Typically, fillings are more conservative, cheaper, require less appointments and easier to fix. However, some cases, particularly larger cavities, can greatly benefit from the added strength that inlays/onlays provide.
Choosing the best option is dependent on many factors including the size of the cavity, the location of the cavity, aesthetics and financial budget.
At Castle Hill Dental Care, we recommend booking a consultation or NO GAP check-up and clean so your dentist can get to know your expectations, assess your tooth and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
How do I take care of my fillings, inlays and onlays?
Just like your natural teeth, it’s important to take care of your fillings too because although they can last many years, all fillings eventually need to be replaced.
They are usually worn down over time from eating, drinking, chewing or grinding and decay can develop along the edge of the filling or underneath it.
Our recommendations:
-
- Floss daily
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste
- Avoid chewing on hard objects
- Book regular check-ups at the dentist
Can I whiten my fillings, inlays and onlays?
Unfortunately, fillings, inlays and onlays cannot be whitened as your natural tooth can.
If tooth decay is present, the tooth must be filled prior to bleaching to ensure the pulp does not become traumatised. After having your teeth bleached, we recommend waiting a few weeks to ensure the colour has stabilised before resurfacing or redoing your filling to match your new whiter colour.
If there is no decay present, we recommend completing your whitening prior to placement of any fillings, veneers, crowns or dentures.
How much do fillings, inlays and onlays cost?
Permanent fillings can range in cost from $175-$450 while inlays and onlays can range from $800-$1600. However the cost of these treatments can vary if additional complex treatment is required.
Most health insurers will provide a level of cover for this treatment and at Castle Hill Dental Care, we offer a range of flexible payment option to ensure you can get the treatment you need in a timely manner.