White Tooth Fillings in Fortitude Valley
Tooth decay, small chips and worn areas can weaken teeth and cause sensitivity or discomfort. White fillings, also known as tooth-coloured or composite fillings, repair these areas using a material that is matched to the natural shade of your teeth.
At Precision Dental, we aim to detect decay early, when a small, conservative filling is often all that is needed.
What Are White Fillings?
White fillings are made from composite resin, a tooth-coloured material that is bonded directly to the tooth. The material is applied in layers, shaped to restore the natural contours of your tooth and hardened with a special curing light.
Because composite bonds to the tooth surface, it can often be placed with less removal of healthy tooth structure than some traditional filling materials. It can also be used to replace old amalgam fillings when they are worn, cracked or decayed.
Are White Fillings Right for You?
A white filling may be recommended if you have:
- A cavity caused by tooth decay
- A small chip or fracture
- Worn areas near the gum line
- A worn, leaking or broken older filling
Composite fillings are well suited to small and medium-sized restorations. If a large part of the tooth is missing or weakened, a crown, inlay or onlay may offer more protection, and options such as CEREC same-day crowns may be discussed.
What Happens at Your Appointment
Diagnosis
Decay is often found during a routine check-up and clean. We use digital X-rays and DiagnoCam, which uses light to help identify decay between teeth and beneath fillings without radiation. We show you what we find and explain your options.
Preparing the Tooth
Local anaesthetic is used to keep you comfortable. Decay and any old filling material are carefully removed, and the tooth is cleaned and prepared for bonding.
Placing the Filling
Composite resin is applied in thin layers, each set with a curing light. The filling is then shaped, your bite is checked, and the surface is polished to a smooth finish.
Aftercare and Ongoing Care
Wait until the numbness has worn off before eating to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. Some sensitivity to hot and cold is normal for a short time. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth, limit sugary foods and drinks, and attend regular check-ups. If your bite feels high or you notice persistent sensitivity, please contact us.
Why Choose Precision Dental for White Fillings
We place great importance on early detection and conservative care. With digital X-rays, DiagnoCam and an intra-oral camera, we can identify concerns early and show you exactly what we are seeing, so you understand why treatment is recommended.
Fees, Health Funds and Payment Options
The cost of your treatment depends on your individual needs. After your examination, we talk you through your options and the expected fees before any treatment begins. We accept most major health funds, process claims on the spot through HICAPS and are a preferred provider for Bupa, HCF and CBHS. Payment plans are available through DentiCare for eligible patients, subject to terms and conditions. You can learn more on our Prices and Payment Options page.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lifespan of a filling depends on its size, location, your bite, grinding habits and oral hygiene. Regular check-ups help us monitor your fillings over time.
Local anaesthetic is used so you are comfortable during treatment. You may feel some sensitivity afterwards, which usually settles within a few days.
Amalgam fillings that are intact and not causing problems do not always need replacing. We recommend replacement when a filling is worn, cracked, leaking or has decay around it.
Composite fillings are set with a curing light, so they are hard before you leave. We recommend waiting until the anaesthetic wears off before eating.
We select a composite shade that blends with your surrounding teeth. Fillings will not change colour with whitening, so it is best to whiten beforehand if you plan to.
Decay can progress deeper into the tooth, which may lead to a toothache, infection or the need for more involved treatment such as root canal therapy or a crown.
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Book Your Visit at Precision Dental
Whether you are due for a routine visit or ready to talk through a treatment you have been considering, our Fortitude Valley team would be glad to welcome you. Call us on (07) 3852 1160 or book online, and we will find a time that suits you.
The information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for personalised advice from a registered dental practitioner. Individual needs, experiences and results vary.
