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Composite fillings are the most affordable option for fixing a decayed or broken tooth. The cost of a dental filling is dependent on the size and complexity of the defect to be restored. At Officer Smiles, dental fillings start from $180 and can go up to $450 for the more complex fillings. If you have private health insurance, this may be partially or wholly covered. We offer flexible payment options to help you get the treatment you need.
No two fillings are the same. A quality filling takes the right materials, equipment, skill and time to do. Restoring a tooth back to how it originally was is somewhat an artform and the longevity of a filling may be influenced by its quality. If a filling is not bonded carefully, you may experience ongoing sensitivity, problems with biting and it may not last as long. When you restore a tooth with us, you know that our dentists will strive to provide the best restoration for you.
If you had a local anaesthetic administered while undergoing a dental filling procedure, you will experience numbness or loss of sensation of the area for between two to four hours. It is important to not eat or drink hot liquids until full sensation has returned to avoid injuring the lips and tongue.
Composite resin fillings typically last 5 to 7 years on average, though they can last up to 10 years or more with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Their longevity depends on factors like the filling's size, location in the mouth (molars tend to wear down fillings faster due to heavy chewing), and daily habits, such as grinding or clenching teeth. Regular check-ups can help detect any early wear or damage, allowing our dentists to make necessary adjustments to extend the life of the filling.
Signs that you may need a filling include tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, visible holes or dark spots on teeth, and pain when biting or chewing. If we detect cavities early at the check-up appointment, a dental filling may be suggested by us to stop it from getting bigger.
The steps for placing a dental filling may differ based on the filling material, but here’s an outline of the typical process: Numbing the Area: The dentist begins by numbing the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic to prevent any pain or discomfort. Removing the Decay: Using a dental drill, the dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth. Etching the Tooth Surface: An acidic gel is applied to etch the tooth’s surface, enhancing the bond between the filling material and the tooth. Applying the Filling Material: The dentist places the filling material into the cavity, shaping it carefully to fit the natural contours of the tooth. Hardening the Filling: A special curing light is used to harden the filling material. Polishing the Filling: Once hardened, the filling is polished to smooth out rough edges, giving it a natural look and feel.
While fillings are generally safe, they can sometimes lead to tooth sensitivity or allergic reactions, though these are rare. In cases of deep cavities close to the tooth nerve, ongoing sensitivity or pain can occur even after a filling is placed. Our dentists always warn about this possibility if they think this is the case, and may suggest root canal treatment or tooth extraction instead. Large fillings can also fracture and dislodge prematurely. A dental crown is usually suggested for larger defects as these offer more protection and are longer lasting.
Maintain a good oral hygiene routine at home, including brushing twice daily, flossing, and attend your 6 monthly regular dental visits. This ensures the fillings placed are maintained and serviced for longevity.
Category
Treatments
1
Fees
We provide a wide range of general treatments
Children's Check-Up + Clean
$129 OR BULK BILLED
Tooth Coloured Fillings
from $180
Dental Crowns
$1700 per tooth
Dental Bridge
$1290 per unit
Deep Clean
From $290 per quadrant
Nightguard
$580
Partial Denture
From $900
Full Denture
$1800 per arch
2
Fees
We provide a wide range of cosmetic treatments
Porcelain Veneers
$990 per tooth
Composite Bonding
$490 per tooth
4
Fees
We provide a wide range of orthodontics treatments
Clear Aligners
From $3990
Fixed Braces
From $5990
5
Fees
We provide a wide range of emergency treatments
Upload a copy of the quote you've received elsewhere, and we'll do our best to match or beat it. At Officer Smiles, we're committed to making quality dental care affordable for everyone. Simply upload your quote here, and let us take care of the rest!