Affected area
The position and size of decay, wear, a chip or a fracture influence the type and extent of repair that may be considered.
Dental Fillings
Fillings May Help Restore Tooth Strength
A dental filling may be considered when decay, wear, a chip or an older restoration has affected part of a tooth. The appropriate repair depends on the remaining tooth structure, symptoms and bite.
Book online for an assessment, or call the practice if you have tooth sensitivity, a chipped or broken tooth, a lost filling, swelling or a sharp edge.
Dental Fillings appointment details
May be considered for
Decay, small chips, worn areas, lost or damaged fillings, and changes around an older restoration.
Fees
Fees depend on the tooth, filling size, and treatment complexity. Itemised costs are discussed before treatment.
Risks and limitations
Relevant risks, limitations, maintenance requirements and the possibility of further care are explained before treatment proceeds.
Start Here
Changes That May Need a Closer Look
A tooth can change without immediately becoming painful. An examination can help identify whether the cause is decay, wear, a fracture, an older restoration or another dental condition.
Start here if
- 01The tooth feels sensitive, rough, sharp, chipped or different when you bite.
- 02Food repeatedly catches around a damaged area or an existing filling.
- 03A filling feels loose, worn, cracked, rough or has fallen out.
- 04Decay, wear, a possible fracture or a change around an older restoration was identified during a check-up or radiograph.
Assessment
What your dentist checks
The extent of the assessment depends on your symptoms, dental history and the condition of the tooth.
Tooth symptoms
Sensitivity, pain when biting, lingering discomfort, swelling or previous trauma may indicate that further assessment is needed.
Bite and access
Bite pressure, grinding, tooth position and the ability to keep the area dry can affect material choice and treatment planning.
Remaining Structure
Existing restorations, cracks and remaining tooth structure help determine whether a filling or another option may be appropriate.
Your Appointment
What happens at your appointment
Assessment and treatment may occur at the same visit or at separate appointments. This depends on the findings, required records, treatment complexity, available time and informed consent.
Confirm the cause and extent
The dentist discusses the symptoms, examines the tooth and may recommend radiographs or other records when clinically indicated.
Discuss the proposed repair
The recommended material, preparation, alternatives, possible risks, limitations and expected fees are explained before treatment proceeds.
Restore and check the tooth
If treatment proceeds, the affected area is prepared and restored. The filling is shaped, the bite is checked and relevant care instructions are provided.
Ongoing Care
Looking After a Filled Tooth
The tooth and filling can change over time. Home care and dental check-up help monitor the filling margins, surrounding tooth structure and bite.
- Avoid very hot food or drinks while the mouth remains numb.
- Take care not to bite the cheek, lip or tongue until normal sensation returns.
- Brush and clean between the teeth as advised.
- Arrange an appointment if the tooth feels painful, high, rough, loose or different when chewing.
- Ongoing dental monitoring may help identify wear, cracks, or decay around the filling.
Related Care
When Care May Extend Beyond a Filling
Fees, Health Funds, Payment Options
Helpful
FAQs
What to Know About Dental Fillings
Answers to common questions about filling appointments, older restorations and factors that may affect treatment planning.
The experience varies depending on the tooth, symptoms and extent of the repair. Local anaesthetic may be recommended where clinically appropriate. Temporary tenderness or sensitivity can occur afterward, and persistent or worsening discomfort should be assessed.
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