Dental fillings are a simple yet vital solution for treating cavities, helping to preserve your teeth and maintain oral health. This quick and straightforward procedure often takes just one visit, offering protection against further decay while strengthening your teeth and eliminating discomfort. The result? A healthy, pain-free smile you can confidently enjoy.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about fillings, from the materials used to the procedure itself, and how to maintain your oral health moving forward.
What is a dental filling?
When decay or damage causes a cavity, repairing the tooth helps restore its strength and prevent further issues.
At Martin Street Dentists, we use white fillings made from composite resin to treat small to medium cavities. This material bonds securely to your tooth and is carefully colour-matched for a natural look. It allows us to preserve more of your healthy tooth structure while restoring full function.
Our dentists select the right shade, sometimes blending several tones, to achieve a seamless finish. The result is a durable, comfortable restoration that feels and looks like your natural tooth.
Composite fillings last for many years, and we check their condition during your regular appointments. They may stain over time, especially with coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking, but with good care, they remain a reliable and discreet solution.
Benefits of dental fillings
Dental fillings come with numerous benefits for your oral health and well-being, including:
Preventing further damage: Fillings stop the progression of tooth decay, protecting your teeth from further harm.
Quick and convenient: Most procedures are completed in just 20–30 minutes, fitting easily into any schedule.
Restoring tooth function: Fillings restore your ability to bite, chew, and speak comfortably.
Long-lasting protection: With proper care, fillings can last for many years. Gold fillings, in particular, can last two decades or more.
Signs of tooth decay
Tooth decay often develops slowly, so recognising the early signs helps avoid more complex treatment later. You might notice:
- Sensitivity when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet
- Pain or pressure when biting or chewing
- Visible holes or rough spots on the tooth surface
- Dark or light patches appearing on your enamel
- Food catching in one area of your mouth
If you experience any of these changes, book an appointment as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
What happens during a filling appointment
A filling is a routine procedure performed under local anaesthetic to ensure comfort. Before treatment, your dentist may take an X-ray to check how deep the decay has gone. During the appointment:
- The damaged part of the tooth is gently removed
- The area is cleaned and dried to eliminate bacteria
- A protective layer may be placed if the cavity is deep
- The filling material is added in layers and hardened with a light
- The surface is shaped and polished for a smooth, natural feel
Once complete, the tooth is restored to full function with a result that blends naturally with your smile.
Frequently asked questions
Dental fillings typically last 10-15 years if looked after correctly, but filling materials such as gold can last even longer.
Good dental care such as a healthy diet, regular flossing and brushing, and regular dentist check-ups will help to ensure the longevity of your filling.
No, tooth fillings don’t hurt because the area will be numbed with a local anaesthesia before the treatment even begins. The site may be a little tender for the following day after the procedure, but you can either take over-the-counter pain medication or avoid chewing using that tooth during this time.
The most painful part of a tooth filling is usually before you get it - the cavity itself can cause pain and discomfort, but the filling will treat the cause to avoid further pain.
No, a tooth filling is incredibly common, and most Australians will need at least one during their lifetime. You can get a tooth filling completed in less than an hour and not think about it again for many years to come.
Take charge of your oral health
Dental fillings are a simple and effective way to restore your teeth and protect your long-term oral health.
At Martin Street Dentists, we care for the Brighton community with precision and personal attention. Whether you need a filling or a routine check-up, our team is here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.