White Fillings Sydney
Our dental fillings treatment in Sydney can help stop the spread of decay and regain the strength of your original tooth.
- Dental filling
- Composite resin filling
When receiving white fillings in Sydney, Professor Ironside’s aim is to prevent any further damage to your tooth as this ensures the longevity of your natural smile.
What causes tooth decay?
Tooth decay often occurs when you consume sugar. This is because the sugar is turned to acid by the bacteria in your mouth. More commonly known as plaque, if left untreated, it can make tiny holes (cavities) in the tooths enamel and burrow further into the tooth.
Once you have a cavity, it is important to get it treated as soon as possible as it can eventually infect the nerve of your tooth and cause a lot of pain. This is why it is so important to brush your teeth twice a day and visit Professor Ironside once every six months for a check-up and clean. At the end of the day, prevention is better than a cure and by maintaining your dental check-ups, Professor Ironside Sydney can prevent decay from taking hold of your tooth with white fillings.
“You want to keep as much of the natural tooth as possible”
Professor Jim Ironside
Treating tooth decay with fillings
If decay has progressed past the point of prevention, a filling may be necessary to stop the spread of decay and strengthen the original tooth. If left untreated, a decaying tooth can cause further structural problems such as an uneven bite or further decay to surrounding teeth.
Receiving a filling is simple and effective. Firstly, Professor Ironside will numb the treated area and use a high-speed drill to glide through the tooth decay, removing as much as possible in the process. After Professor Ironside has finished this process, he will move onto a slow-speed drill to remove any remaining tooth decay. Once the decay has been completely removed from the pocket, Professor Ironside will proceed to seal the hole with a filling.
In most instances, Professor Ironside opts to use a composite resin filling. This ensures that the filling will be the same colour as your natural tooth; creating a discreet appearance. Getting a filling involves applying a small amount of acid to the tooth to expose the microscopic pores in the tooth. Professor Ironside will then apply a bonding agent to the tooth and place the filling. He then uses a bright blue light to strengthen and harden the filling. The process is completed by using a slow speed drill to shape and smooth the filling to your natural tooth.
High Quality Dental Fillings Sydney CBD
Unlike if your sprain an ankle or hit your head where the pain is immediate, you originally may not feel any pain if you have a cavity. This is why it is so important to maintain your regular check-up and clean with Professor Ironside. However, if you have been experiencing a toothache, we recommend that you book a consultation with Professor Ironside as soon as possible. This gives him the best chance of treating the symptom causing your pain before it develops into something more serious.
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Please fill in the online enquiry form to ask a question or book your consultation. Professor Ironside looks forward to seeing you soon.
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Frequently asked questions about white fillings
What causes cavities?
A cavity is most commonly caused from a type of acid which is mainly found in sugary foods and drinks and works to erode your natural tooth enamel. Cavities generally start to develop in the tiny spaces between your teeth and in the pits of your molar teeth making them difficult to detect. This is why it is so important that you attend regular dental check-ups.
What are fillings made from?
Fillings can be made from a wide variety of materials. Some of these include amalgam, gold and composite resin. Professor Ironside opts to use composite resin fillings as it provides the most realistic results; matching the patients natural tooth colour.
How long do fillings last?
If cared for properly, a typical filling can last up to 10 years before it needs to be replaced.
Why are Tooth-Coloured Fillings preferred over the Old amalgam (Silver) Fillings?
Tooth-coloured fillings, also known as composite resin fillings, have become more popular than traditional amalgam (silver) fillings for several reasons:
- Aesthetics: Tooth-coloured fillings blend in with the natural colour of the teeth, making them a more attractive option than amalgam fillings, which are silver in colour and can be noticeable when you smile or talk.
- Preservation of tooth structure: Composite resin fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure than amalgam fillings, which can help preserve the overall health and strength of the tooth.
- Bonding strength: Tooth-coloured fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, providing a stronger seal and less risk of leakage or damage over time.
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Safety concerns: Amalgam fillings contain a small amount of mercury, which can be a concern for some people, especially pregnant women or those with allergies to metals.
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Durability: Tooth-coloured fillings are durable and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
Overall, tooth-coloured fillings have become a popular choice for filling cavities and restoring the health and beauty of teeth due to their aesthetic appeal, preservation of tooth structure, bonding strength, and safety concerns.
How will the Tooth-Coloured Fillings look in my mouth?
Tooth-coloured fillings are designed to blend in with the natural colour of your teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from your surrounding teeth. The dentist will use a shade guide to select a composite resin material that closely matches the colour of your teeth. This ensures that the filling will blend in seamlessly and look natural in your mouth.
In some cases, the dentist may need to make small adjustments to the filling’s shape or colour after it’s placed in your mouth to ensure it blends in perfectly with your teeth. However, with the right technique and attention to detail, tooth-coloured fillings can provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing result.
Overall, tooth-coloured fillings offer a great alternative to traditional amalgam (silver) fillings, providing a more natural and attractive look while also being strong and durable enough to withstand the forces of biting and chewing.
How will Tooth-Coloured Fillings feel in my mouth?
Tooth-coloured fillings, also known as composite resin fillings, should feel comfortable in your mouth once they are placed. The dentist will carefully shape and polish the filling to ensure that it fits comfortably and doesn’t interfere with your bite.
In some cases, it’s normal to experience some sensitivity or discomfort after getting a filling, especially when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and beverages. However, this discomfort should subside within a few days or weeks. If you experience persistent or severe pain, it’s important to contact your dentist, as this could be a sign of an issue that needs to be addressed.
Overall, tooth-coloured fillings should feel smooth and natural in your mouth, allowing you to eat, talk, and smile with confidence. If you have any concerns about how your filling feels, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist. They can make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the filling fits comfortably and provides optimal function and appearance.
Are there any restrictions on eating or drinking after getting a tooth-coloured filling?
After getting a tooth-coloured filling, it’s generally advisable to avoid eating or drinking for at least one hour following the procedure. This allows the filling material to fully set and harden, ensuring its effectiveness and longevity. Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid consuming extremely hot or hard foods for the first 24 hours to prevent any potential damage to the filling. Beyond these initial precautions, there are typically no specific dietary restrictions associated with tooth-coloured fillings. However, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, is essential for the overall health and longevity of the filling. If you have any concerns or questions about post-filling care, it’s best to consult Professor Jim Ironside for personalised advice.
Can tooth-coloured fillings be used for all cavities?
Tooth-coloured fillings, or composite resin fillings, are suitable for most cavities, including small to medium-sized cavities in visible areas of the mouth. However, there are some cases where tooth-coloured fillings may not be the best option.
For example, if you have a large cavity or a cavity in a molar that bears heavy chewing forces, a dental expert may recommend a more durable filling material, such as porcelain. These materials can withstand the pressures involved in chewing and may be more suitable in certain situations.
Your prosthodontist will assess the size and location of the cavity, as well as your oral health needs and preferences, to determine the most appropriate filling material for your specific situation.
Do tooth-coloured fillings require special care?
Tooth-coloured fillings, also known as composite resin fillings, do not require special care beyond regular oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and attending regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Avoid biting down on hard foods or objects that could damage the filling, and limit the consumption of staining foods and drinks. If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your fillings and natural teeth from damage. Overall, maintaining good oral hygiene and being mindful of your eating habits can help ensure the longevity and durability of your tooth-coloured fillings.