Fillings at Berwick Dental Clinic & Surgery

Everyone knows how essential it is to keep up on your oral hygiene routines at home. Even those who brush and floss regularly may experience the common oral health problem of tooth decay. At Berwick Dental Clinic & Surgery, we provide tooth-coloured fillings that will blend in with your smile so that nobody knows they are there.

Why Choose White Fillings?

Once you have tooth decay, it won’t go away and must be addressed so that it doesn’t worsen, turn into an infection or spread to neighbouring teeth. The materials we can provide for tooth-coloured fillings include porcelain and composite.

A white filling isn’t as invasive as the silver amalgam fillings that were the standard for treatment in years past. It won’t require that as much of the tooth material be removed, and it won’t expand or contract when it comes into contact with hot or cold substances.

There is no mercury in our tooth-coloured fillings, making it the clear choice to address tooth decay.

We want you to be able to take control of your oral health, which is why we discuss your home habits with you. We’ll give you any relevant advice on products to use or techniques for brushing and flossing so that you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy between your checkups.

What to Expect

At a consultation, we’ll evaluate your tooth and determine the nature of your problem. If it is tooth decay, we’ll recommend that you have a filling to address the decay. This straightforward process involves having anaesthetic administered so that you stay relaxed and don’t experience any discomfort.

Then, we’ll remove the area of decay from the tooth, preserving as much as the existing tooth structure as possible. Then, the site is disinfected and dried. The filling material will be applied and shaped into the perfect form, followed by allowing it to harden into place. We’ll then polish your filling and make sure that you and your dentist are happy with the results.

Inlays and Onlays Available

If you have an area of decay that is larger, an inlay or onlay may be the most appropriate solution. These restorations are custom-created for you and can either fit on the cusps of the tooth or over them, depending on your needs. Once they’ve been fabricated, we will bond them to your teeth.

Will the Dental Filling Process Hurt?

At Berwick Dental Clinic, our top priority is your comfort and well-being. We understand that the thought of a dental filling can cause anxiety for some, which is why we have streamlined our process to ensure minimal discomfort and a stress-free experience.

Numbing Gel Application:

To start the procedure, we apply a numbing gel to the gums around the affected tooth. This ensures that you feel minimal discomfort during the filling process.

Sedation Dentistry Options:

We recognise that some patients may need additional support to feel relaxed during their visit. For this reason, we offer various sedation dentistry options. Whether it’s oral sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas), we have solutions to make your visit as comfortable as possible.

Experienced Staff:

Our team at Berwick Dental Clinic is highly experienced and skilled in administering fillings. They are adept at ensuring the procedure is quick, efficient and as pain-free as possible.

Post-Procedure Care:

After your dental filling, our team will provide comprehensive advice on post-procedure care. This includes guidance on eating and drinking habits, oral hygiene practices for when you return home and any necessary follow-up appointments.

How Long Will the Dental Filling Process Take?

The duration of the dental filling process varies depending on the extent of tooth decay. However, in most cases, the procedure takes less than an hour. Our team at Berwick Dental Clinic is dedicated to providing efficient and high-quality dental care.

Can Children Get Fillings?

Yes, children can get dental fillings. If your child has a dental cavity, a filling from our experienced dentists can help restore the tooth and prevent further decay. Our team at Berwick Dental Clinic is experienced in paediatric dentistry and ensures a comfortable and safe environment for your child.

Are Silver Amalgam Fillings Safe?

While silver amalgam fillings were commonly used in the past, there have been health concerns associated with them. Australia is moving towards phasing out these fillings. At Berwick Dental Clinic, we’re ahead of this trend and use safer, more modern materials for fillings.

Will My Dental Filling Be Covered by Insurance?

Berwick Dental Clinic is part of HCF preferred providers and the SMILE fee group, which means that your dental filling may be covered by insurance. However, it’s important to check with your individual provider to understand your coverage.

Exploring the Cost of Dental Fillings

The price of dental fillings in Berwick is influenced by a range of factors, making it difficult to provide a one-size-fits-all answer to the question: “Are fillings expensive?” At Berwick Dental Clinic, we’re committed to affordable dental care and offer various payment options to accommodate our patients’ needs. Here’s what you need to know:

Filling Type:

The material chosen for your filling plays a significant role in the cost. Some materials are more expensive than others due to their properties and benefits.

Procedure Complexity:

The complexity of the treatment also impacts the final cost. More intricate procedures necessitate more time and resources, increasing the overall price.

To help manage these costs, Berwick Dental Clinic offers several payment alternatives:

Flexible Payment Options:

We accept Afterpay, Openpay, ZIP, and HUMM, allowing you to spread out the cost of your treatment over time.

In-House Direct Debit:

For orthodontic treatments, we offer an in-house direct debit payment method, letting you pay in manageable instalments.

At Berwick Dental Clinic, we strive to make quality dental care accessible and affordable. Don’t let cost concerns keep you from getting the necessary dental care. Reach out to us today to explore your options.

What is the Best Type of Filling?

Choosing the best type of dental filling is subjective, and it largely depends on the individual needs of the patient and the recommendation of the dentist. Among the different types of fillings available, composite resin fillings stand out as a widely preferred choice.

Here’s why:

Durability:

Composite resin fillings are known for their long-lasting nature. They can withstand the pressure of biting and chewing, making them a reliable choice for patients.

Aesthetics:

Unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, composite resin fillings match the natural colour of your teeth. This makes them an excellent option for those who prioritise aesthetics alongside functionality.

Biocompatibility:

Composite resin fillings are made from a biocompatible material that minimises the risk of allergic reactions or sensitivities.

Versatility:

These fillings can be used for a variety of dental issues like cavities, chipped or cracked teeth, and even for cosmetic enhancements.

However, it’s essential to have a discussion with your dentist to determine the most suitable type of filling based on your specific dental condition and personal preferences.

Which is Better, a Filling or a Crown?

Whether a filling or a crown is better depends on the extent of tooth decay or damage. For minor fractures or decay, a filling may be sufficient. However, more extensive damage may require a crown. Our dentists at Berwick Dental Clinic can provide guidance on the best treatment option for you.

What is the Difference Between a White Filling and a Composite Filling?

When discussing dental fillings, the terms “white fillings” and “composite fillings” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to a tooth-coloured filling material known as composite resin. This is a durable substance made from plastic and fine glass particles, designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth.

The primary advantage of these fillings is their aesthetic appeal. Unlike amalgam fillings, which are silver and noticeable when you laugh or speak, composite resin fillings blend seamlessly with your natural tooth colour, making them virtually invisible.

In addition to their cosmetic benefits, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure. This bonding process provides additional support to the tooth, helping to prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from extreme temperature changes.

While composite fillings might be more costly than other types like amalgam, the benefits of a natural-looking, strong, and long-lasting filling often make it a preferred choice for both dentists and patients alike.

What is the Difference Between a Gold Filling and an Amalgam Filling?

Gold fillings are durable and long-lasting but are more noticeable and expensive. On the other hand, amalgam fillings are less expensive but contain mercury. As part of our commitment to patient safety and wellbeing, Berwick Dental Clinic has phased out the use of amalgam fillings.

Remember, if you have lost a tooth filling in Berwick, our team is here to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.

SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT TODAY

If you’re concerned that you may need a filling Berwick, don’t delay. Contact us today to get the attention you need! We accept all health funds and your rebate can be claimed on the spot with our HICAPS machine.

* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.