Dental Fillings Hornsby

We are a mercury-free practice. However, many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (onlays),made from composite resin, create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are esthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.

Disadvantages of Silver fillings:

Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and lets cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split. Unlike composite fillings, silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak, and cause stains on your teeth and gums.”

Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with Tooth-Colored Restorations.

Why Replace Silver Amalgam Fillings?

Traditional silver fillings were widely used in the past. However, they come with several disadvantages.

Disadvantages of Silver Fillings

• Contain approximately 50 percent mercury
• Expand and contract with temperature changes
• Can weaken the surrounding tooth structure
• May crack or split teeth over time
• Can corrode or leak
• Often cause dark staining on teeth and gums
• Are visually noticeable when you smile

Because metal expands and contracts, it can place stress on the remaining natural tooth. Over time, this may lead to fractures or recurrent decay around the edges of the filling.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin onlays are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.

Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contain fluoride this can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums!

The result is a beautiful smile!

Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration

You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This dental treatment process requires two appointments with our Hornsby dentist.

Your First Appointment:

The old filling is removed along with any additional decay. Over time, untreated decay can progress beyond what a filling can address at which point a root canal treatment may be required. Early treatment with a filling is almost always simpler, quicker, and more affordable than waiting for decay to worsen.
An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.
A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.

At the Lab: A resin is carefully placed into the model of your teeth. It is then designed to look natural and provide a strong barrier against tooth decay.

Your Second Appointment:

The temporary onlay is removed.
A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
Dental bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
The tooth is then polished.

Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!

For dental fillings and other dentistry services in Hornsby, including inquiries about filling cost, contact us on 02 9477 1212.

How to Care for Your Fillings After Treatment

Once your tooth-coloured restoration is in place, taking good care of it will help ensure it lasts as long as possible and continues to look and feel natural. Here is what you need to know about caring for your fillings after treatment.

Immediately After Your Appointment

The first few hours after your filling appointment require a little extra care, particularly if a local anaesthetic was used during the procedure.

Avoid eating or drinking until the numbness has completely worn off, as you may accidentally bite your cheek, tongue, or lip without realising it.
Stick to soft foods for the remainder of the day to avoid placing unnecessary pressure on the newly restored tooth.
Avoid very hot or very cold foods and drinks in the first 24 hours, as the tooth may be temporarily sensitive following treatment.
If you experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after the anaesthetic wears off, over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient. Contact our team if the discomfort is severe or persists beyond a few days.

Ongoing Care for Tooth-Coloured Restorations

Tooth-coloured composite fillings are durable and designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, but they do benefit from consistent care to maintain their appearance and longevity.

Maintain a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily, including around the restored tooth, to remove plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush cannot reach.
Consider using a fluoride mouthwash for added protection against decay around the edges of the filling.

Watch What You Eat and Drink

Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can contribute to decay around the margins of the filling over time.
Avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, or fingernails, as these can chip or crack composite resin restorations.
Be mindful that certain foods and drinks, including coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, can gradually stain tooth-coloured restorations over time.

Habits to Avoid

Certain habits can significantly shorten the lifespan of your fillings and should be avoided where possible.

Grinding or clenching your teeth: This places excessive pressure on fillings and can cause them to crack or wear down prematurely. If you grind your teeth at night, speak to your dentist about a custom night guard to protect both your natural teeth and your restorations.
Using your teeth as tools: Opening packaging, biting nails, or chewing on hard objects can damage fillings and should be avoided.
Skipping dental check-ups: Regular visits to Hornsby Family Dental Care allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your fillings and identify any early signs of wear, cracking, or decay before they become more serious problems.

When to Contact Your Dentist

While some mild sensitivity in the days following treatment is normal, there are certain signs that warrant a prompt call to our practice.

Pain or sensitivity that worsens or does not improve after a few days
A feeling that the filling is too high or interfering with your bite
Visible cracking, chipping, or a rough edge on the restoration
Sensitivity to sweet foods or drinks around the filled tooth
Any unusual discomfort when biting or chewing

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which type of tooth filling is best?
The best type of tooth filling depends on various factors, including the location of the cavity, the extent of tooth decay, patient preferences, and budget. Common options include amalgam (silver) fillings, composite (tooth-coloured) fillings, gold fillings, and ceramic fillings. Our team at Hornsby Family Dental Care can help you determine the most suitable option for your individual needs during a consultation.

2. How often should fillings be replaced?
Regular dental check-ups are crucial as your dentist can monitor the condition of your fillings and recommend replacement if necessary. On average, amalgam fillings can last 10 to 15 years, while composite fillings may last 7 to 10 years, although with proper care, they can last longer.

3. Are tooth-coloured fillings as strong as silver amalgam fillings?
Yes. Modern composite resin restorations are designed to be both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Thanks to advances in dental bonding technology, tooth-coloured fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, which can actually help strengthen the remaining tooth. Unlike silver amalgam, composite resin does not expand and contract with temperature changes, reducing the risk of cracks or fractures over time.

4. Is it safe to replace my old silver fillings?
Yes, silver amalgam fillings can be safely removed and replaced with tooth-coloured restorations. At Hornsby Family Dental Care, we are a mercury-free practice and follow careful protocols when removing old fillings to minimise any exposure during the process. If you are considering replacing your silver fillings, we recommend scheduling a consultation so our dentist can assess your individual situation and discuss the best approach for you.

5. Will I experience sensitivity after getting a filling?
Some mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure in the days following a filling is normal and usually resolves on its own within a short period. If sensitivity persists beyond a few days, worsens over time, or is accompanied by pain when biting, contact our team promptly as this may indicate the filling needs a minor adjustment.

6. How long does the filling procedure take?
The time required depends on the size and location of the cavity and the type of restoration being placed. A straightforward composite filling can often be completed in a single appointment within 30 to 60 minutes. Tooth-coloured inlay or onlay restorations, which are made at a dental laboratory, require two appointments — one to prepare the tooth and place a temporary restoration, and a second to bond the final restoration in place.

7. Can fillings fall out?
While fillings are designed to be long-lasting, they can occasionally become loose or dislodged, particularly if the tooth experiences trauma, if the filling is old and worn, or if decay develops around its edges. If you notice a filling feels loose, has chipped, or appears to have come out, contact your dentist as soon as possible to have it assessed and replaced before further damage occurs.

8. How can I make my fillings last longer?
The best way to extend the life of your fillings is to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, attend regular dental check-ups, avoid chewing on hard objects, and limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks. If you grind your teeth at night, speaking to your dentist about a custom night guard can also help protect your restorations from premature wear.