Tooth fillings are one of the most frequently performed dental procedures used to restore teeth affected by decay or minor damage to prevent further complications. But if you’re wondering about the tooth filling cost in Australia, you’re not alone. The cost varies based on several factors, including the chosen filling material, the complexity of the tooth-filling procedure, and the dentist’s expertise.
This guide covers all essential details, including the various types of fillings and available treatment options, helping you make a well-informed choice for your dental health.
What Is a Tooth Filling, and Why Might You Need One?
A tooth filling is a dental treatment that repairs a damaged or decayed tooth by sealing the cavity with a suitable filling material. This prevents further tooth decay, strengthens the tooth structure, and restores normal function.
- Tooth decay (dental caries) that has created a cavity.
- A broken tooth or cracked tooth due to injury or wear.
- Sensitivity to cold foods, sweets, or pressure caused by enamel erosion.
- Minor damage that needs reinforcement before it worsens.
Without treatment, decay can progress, leading to further decay, infection, or the need for root canal therapy or even tooth extraction. A timely tooth-filling procedure helps protect the natural tooth and maintain good dental health.
How Much Does a Tooth Filling Cost in Australia?
The cost of a dental filling in Australia depends on various factors, including the filling material, the size of the cavity, and the dental clinic you visit. Generally, here’s what you can expect:
- Composite resin (tooth-coloured) fillings start at $150 per tooth.
- Amalgam fillings (metal-based) start at $100 per tooth.
- Gold fillings start at $800 per tooth.
- Porcelain fillings start at $500 per tooth.
- Ceramic fillings start at $400 per tooth.
Prices may vary depending on the dentist’s expertise, the complexity of the procedure, and your location. If you have private health insurance, you may receive partial coverage for basic dental services. The Australian Dental Association recommends regular check-ups to catch cavities early, as treating them sooner can save you money.
What Affects the Cost of a Tooth Filling?
The filling cost varies due to multiple factors, including:
1. Filling Material
The chosen filling material significantly impacts cost. Composite resin (tooth-coloured) fillings are common for aesthetics, while amalgam (silver) fillings are more durable but less visually appealing. Gold, porcelain, and ceramic fillings are premium options, offering superior longevity but at a higher price.
2. Size and Location of the Filling
The location of the affected tooth also impacts the price. Fillings for back teeth (molars) tend to cost more due to their size and the complexity of the procedure, whereas front teeth fillings are generally smaller and more affordable.
3. Dentist’s Expertise and Location
A highly experienced dental professional may charge higher fees. Additionally, dental practices in metropolitan areas tend to have higher costs compared to regional clinics.
4. Complexity of the Procedure
If the tooth filling procedure requires additional work, such as root canal therapy, the cost will increase. Fillings for broken teeth or those requiring reshaping may also be more expensive.
What Happens During a Tooth Filling Procedure?
A tooth-filling procedure is a straightforward dental treatment designed to fix a damaged or decayed tooth. Here’s what you can expect during the entire procedure:
1. Examination and Diagnosis
2. Numbing the Tooth (If Needed)
If the cavity is deep, the dentist may apply a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the prepared cavity, ensuring a comfortable experience.
3. Removing Decay or Damage
Using a dental drill or laser, the dental professional removes the decayed or damaged part of the tooth enamel, leaving a clean surface for the filling material.
4. Preparing the Tooth for the Filling
The cleaned-out prepared cavity is shaped to accommodate the chosen filling material. For composite fillings, the dentist may apply an adhesive before placing the filling.
5. Placing the Filling
The dentist fills the cavity with the selected filling material, such as composite resin, gold, amalgam, ceramic, or porcelain. For tooth-coloured fillings, the dentist may apply the material in layers and harden each layer using a special light.
6. Shaping and Polishing
Once the filling procedure is complete, the dentist will shape and smooth the filling to match the tooth’s shape and ensure a natural bite. Any rough edges are polished to prevent irritation.
7. Final Check and Aftercare Advice
The dentist evaluates your bite alignment to ensure the filling sits comfortably and does not interfere with normal chewing. They may offer oral hygiene tips to maintain the filling and prevent further decay.
Most tooth-filling dental procedures take place in a single dental appointment and require minimal recovery time. However, it’s normal to experience temporary sensitivity to cold foods or pressure for a few days after the procedure.
Which Type of Filling Is Best for You?
The selected filling material significantly influences the restoration’s durability, lifespan, and aesthetic appeal. Different materials are used based on functionality, aesthetics, and individual patient needs.
Composite resin fillings, often referred to as tooth-coloured fillings, are a popular choice for their seamless integration with the natural tooth’s colour and appearance. They provide a strong and aesthetic solution, especially for front teeth, and are commonly used in posterior teeth as well. Composite fillings require careful layering and curing to ensure a durable bond with the tooth structure.
Amalgam fillings, generally known as silver fillings, have been used for decades due to their strength and durability. They are especially suitable for posterior teeth, where chewing pressure is higher. While not as visually appealing as tooth-coloured options, amalgam fillings are exceptionally durable, offering strong wear resistance and long-lasting results with proper care.
Gold fillings offer exceptional longevity, lasting for decades in some cases. They are highly durable and resistant to further decay, making them a preferred choice for patients seeking long-term restorations. However, their metallic appearance makes them less desirable for visible teeth, and they typically require multiple visits to a dental professional for fitting.
Porcelain fillings provide a natural, tooth-like appearance while offering excellent strength and resistance to staining. These fillings are often used for patients who prioritise aesthetics and want a material that closely mimics tooth enamel. Ceramic fillings are another option within this category, offering a balance between durability and aesthetics, making them suitable for both front teeth and posterior teeth.
Each filling material has its own benefits, and the choice depends on factors such as the location of the affected tooth, the extent of the decay, personal preferences, and budget considerations. Consulting with a dental professional helps determine the most suitable option for maintaining optimal dental health.
What If You Don’t Get a Filling in Time?
Ignoring cavities can lead to serious dental health issues, including:
- Further decay weakens the tooth.
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
- The need for root canal therapy or tooth extraction.
- Damage to surrounding teeth.
- More expensive dental treatment in the future.
How to Care for Your Filling and Prevent Cavities
A filling doesn’t mean you’re off the hook for good oral hygiene! Follow these tips routinely to keep your teeth healthy:
- Brush and floss daily to prevent dental caries.
- Visit your dentist regularly for dental care check-ups.
- Avoid excessive sugar and acidic foods that erode tooth enamel.
- If you grind your teeth, use a mouthguard to protect your natural tooth and filling material.
- Maintain a balanced diet to support tooth structure and overall health.
Making Tooth Fillings Affordable: Flexible Payment Options
Getting a tooth filling doesn’t have to be a financial strain. Many dental clinics in Australia offer financing options to make treatment more accessible. Here are some common payment methods:
- SuperCare – Allows eligible patients to access their superannuation to cover essential dental treatments, including tooth fillings.
- HICAPS – Instantly processes private health insurance claims, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for those with dental coverage.
- EFTPOS – A quick and secure way to pay directly from your bank account at most dental clinics.
- Denticare – offers interest-free payment plans, letting you split costs into manageable instalments.
- Credit Cards – Most clinics accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express for flexible payment options.
- Zip Pay – A buy now, pay later service that allows you to spread costs into interest-free repayments.
- TLC (Total Lifestyle Credit) – Provides personal loans for dental treatments, helping ease upfront costs.
- NDP (National Dental Plan) – Enables fortnightly, interest-free payments, making treatment more budget-friendly.
Check with your dental clinic about their available financing options to make tooth fillings more affordable for you.
FAQs About Tooth Fillings
- How long can a tooth filling last?
The durability of a tooth filling varies based on the filling material used and the individual’s oral hygiene habits. Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years, while amalgam fillings can last 10-15 years. Gold and porcelain fillings can last 15-30 years with proper care.
- Is getting a tooth filling painful?
The tooth-filling procedure is usually comfortable as local anaesthesia is used to numb the area. After the procedure, mild sensitivity or discomfort may occur but usually subsides within a few days.
- Can a filling fall out?
Yes, a dental filling can loosen or fall out due to wear, chewing pressure, or decay around the filling. If this happens, visit a dental professional immediately to prevent further complications.
- What should I avoid after getting a filling?
For the first 24 hours, avoid hard, sticky, or very hot and cold foods that could dislodge or stress the filling. Maintain good oral hygiene and adhere to your dentist’s aftercare instructions.
- How do I know if I need a filling?
Common signs include tooth sensitivity, pain when chewing, visible holes or cracks in the tooth, and dark spots on the enamel. A dentist can confirm if a filling procedure is necessary.
- Can I replace an old filling?
Yes, old or damaged fillings can be replaced. If you have an amalgam filling and prefer a more aesthetic tooth-coloured filling, your dentist can discuss replacement options like composite resin or porcelain fillings.
- What happens if I don’t get a filling?
Untreated cavities can lead to further decay, infections, pain, and the need for more invasive treatments like root canal therapy or tooth extraction. Early treatment with a dental filling helps prevent these complications.
- Do fillings require special care?
Not necessarily, but maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular dental check-ups, and avoiding chewing hard objects can extend the life of your tooth filling.
- Can You Get a Filling for Baby Teeth?
Yes! Baby teeth with cavities can also be filled to prevent further tooth decay. Though they eventually fall out, decayed baby teeth can cause pain and infections that affect the development of surrounding teeth.
Final Thoughts: Is a Tooth Filling Worth It?
If you suspect you need a filling, book an appointment with a dental professional to explore your treatment options. Early intervention is key to avoiding serious dental complications.
Got questions? Contact Available Dental Care today at (02) 4601 3828 to learn more about the tooth filling cost and start your journey to a healthy smile.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (n.d.). Dental amalgam fillings. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/dental-amalgam-fillings#:~:text=Dental%20amalgam%20is%20a%20dental,is%20elemental%20mercury%20by%20weight
- Healthline. (n.d.). Composite fillings: What you should know. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/composite-fillings
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). (n.d.). Local Anesthesia Techniques in Dentistry and Oral Surgery. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK580480/
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Teeth sensitivity. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10954-teeth-sensitivity
- Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Cavities: Symptoms & causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892
