About Dental Fillings at Recreate Smiles, Joondalup
Tooth decay is one of the most common dental conditions in Australia, and when caught early, it can be treated quickly and simply with a dental filling. At Recreate Smiles in Joondalup, we provide high-quality tooth-coloured composite fillings that restore the strength and appearance of a decayed tooth while blending seamlessly with your natural teeth.
A dental filling works by removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the resulting cavity with a durable restorative material. Composite resin, the material we primarily use, is matched to the shade of your surrounding teeth so the filling is virtually invisible. Unlike the old-style silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, which means less of the healthy tooth needs to be removed.
Fillings can also be used to repair minor chips or cracks in teeth, restore teeth that have worn down from grinding, and replace old, deteriorating fillings that are no longer providing adequate protection.
The procedure is straightforward and generally completed in a single appointment. Local anaesthesia is used to ensure your comfort, and once the filling has been shaped and polished, it should feel completely natural when you bite and chew.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need a filling?
In the early stages, tooth decay may not cause any symptoms, which is why regular dental check-ups are so important. As a cavity develops, you may notice sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold foods, a visible hole or discolouration on the tooth, or pain when biting. If you notice any of these signs, contact our Joondalup clinic promptly for an assessment.
Are tooth-coloured fillings as strong as silver amalgam fillings?
Modern composite resin fillings are very durable and suitable for most areas of the mouth, including back teeth that experience significant chewing forces. They have improved significantly in strength over the years. For very large cavities in heavily loaded areas, alternative restorations such as ceramic inlays may be more appropriate, and we will advise you accordingly.
Does getting a filling hurt?
No. The area around the tooth is numbed with local anaesthesia before any work begins, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure or vibration from the dental instruments, but the process is not painful. If you experience any discomfort, simply let our team know and we will address it immediately.
How long do dental fillings last?
Composite resin fillings typically last between seven and ten years, though this varies depending on the size of the filling, its location in the mouth, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene. Regular check-ups allow us to monitor your fillings and replace them before they begin to break down.
Can old silver amalgam fillings be replaced with tooth-coloured ones?
Yes. Many patients choose to have old amalgam fillings replaced with modern composite alternatives for both aesthetic and practical reasons. We will assess the condition of your existing fillings and advise whether replacement is clinically appropriate at the time.
Do not wait for tooth decay to worsen.
Contact Recreate Smiles Joondalup to book a check-up and find out if a filling is the simple solution you need.
