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Got a Cavity or Chip? Fillings Can Help

Tooth decay and chipped teeth can affect your comfort, appearance, and ability to enjoy everyday meals. Some patients delay seeking care due to concerns about discomfort or the process itself.

At Austral Smiles, modern fillings in Austral are designed to blend naturally with your teeth while helping restore structure and function. This treatment supports long-term oral health and can help improve both comfort and confidence when smiling or eating.

Who Should Consider Getting a Dental Filling

Dental fillings are commonly recommended when a tooth has been damaged by decay, injury, or general wear. Here are some of the signs that might suggest a filling is appropriate:

Visible cavity

A dark spot or hole in your tooth may be an early sign of decay. A filling can help restore strength and slow further damage.

Chipped tooth

Small chips from biting hard foods or trauma can expose sensitive areas. Fillings protect the tooth and help prevent further enamel damage.

Tooth sensitivity

Pain from hot, cold, or sweet foods can suggest enamel erosion or decay. Fillings help shield sensitive areas and reduce daily discomfort.

Worn edges

Teeth worn from grinding or bite issues may benefit from fillings to rebuild the structure and protect against further wear or flattening.

Discover the Long-Lasting Benefits of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are one of the most common procedures in modern dentistry. They play an important role in helping patients maintain strong, healthy teeth throughout different stages of life.

Tooth preservation

Fillings are used to seal the weakened parts of a tooth. This helps protect the remaining structure and lowers the risk of further damage or more complex dental procedures.

Pain relief

Exposed or damaged areas can be covered with a filling. This reduces sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods and makes chewing more comfortable.

Improved appearance

Tooth-coloured fillings blend with natural teeth. They work well for visible areas and help maintain a smooth, natural-looking smile without drawing attention.

Better function

A filling restores the tooth’s original shape. This improves chewing, supports better bite alignment, and reduces extra pressure on surrounding teeth during eating.

Let’s Take Care of Your Smile

Ready to prioritise your oral health? Our friendly team at Austral Smiles is here to support you with personalised care in a welcoming environment. Book an appointment today. Your smile matters.

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A Relaxing, No-Judgement Space

Dental visits can feel daunting — we get it. That’s why we've created a calm, welcoming environment where you can take a deep breath, feel heard, and leave the nerves behind.

Flexible Payment Options

We offer flexible payment options to help you access necessary dental care in a way that suits your circumstances.

Results That Go the Distance

We focus on high-quality care using proven techniques and durable materials to support long-term results, helping you smile with confidence.

Experienced Dentists

With over 30 years of combined experience, our dental team brings a steady hand and a caring heart to every treatment. Whether you're 6 or 60, you're in good hands with us.

Where Your Smile Feels Right at Home

At Austral Smiles, we combine professional dental care with genuine local hospitality, creating a positive, trusted experience for families in Austral and surrounding suburbs.

Where Your Smile Feels Right at Home

At Austral Smiles, we combine professional dental care with genuine local hospitality, creating a positive, trusted experience for families in Austral and surrounding suburbs.

icon A Relaxing, No-Judgement Space

Dental visits can feel daunting — we get it. That’s why we’ve created a calm, welcoming environment where you can take a deep breath, feel heard, and leave the nerves behind.
We focus on high-quality care using proven techniques and durable materials to support long-term results, helping you smile with confidence.
We offer flexible payment options to help you access necessary dental care in a way that suits your circumstances.
With over 30 years of combined experience, our dental team brings a steady hand and a caring heart to every treatment. Whether you’re 6 or 60, you’re in good hands with us.

Payment Options

We offer a range of flexible payment options to help make your dental care more manageable.

View All Payment Options

We Accept All Health Funds

We’re a CBHS Choice Network and a nib First Choice Network preferred provider, and we accept all major health funds. Our clinic processes eligible CDBS and government programme claims on the spot for your convenience.
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Medibank
Bupa
Ahm
Australian Unity
CBHS
Gmhba
Hcf
HIF
NIB
Hbf Mid
Group 322
Medibank
Bupa
Ahm
Australian Unity
CBHS
Gmhba
Hcf
HIF
NIB
Hicaps
Australia Government
Defence Health
Qantas
Gmf
GU Health
ING
Police Health
West Fund
Apia
GU Health
Hicaps
Australia Government
Defence Health
Qantas
Gmf
GU Health
ING
Police Health
West Fund
Apia
GU Health
Hicaps
Australia Government
Defence Health
Qantas
Gmf
GU Health
ING
Police Health
West Fund
Apia
GU Health

Meet the Experienced Dentists at Austral Smiles

Get to know our friendly dental team, each dedicated to providing personalised care to improve your smile and oral health.

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Dentist

Dr. Sushmita Dahal

With over 18 years of experience, Dr. Sushmita Dahal has worked across private, public, and not-for-profit clinics in Australia. She combines technical precision with creative skills in dental artistry and smile rehabilitation.

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Dentist

Dr. Mamata Maharjan

Dr. Mamata Maharjan has over 15 years of clinical experience in Sydney’s public and private sectors. She focuses on preventive dentistry, root canal therapy, and clear aligner orthodontic treatments for adults and teens.

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Dentist

Dr. Bandana Shakya

A graduate of Progressive Orthodontic Seminars (USA, 2015), Dr. Bandana Shakya offers implants and orthodontic treatments. She provides Invisalign®, ClearCorrect®, Spark®, ClearPath® aligners and performs complex wisdom teeth extractions. She also completed implant training with Osstem.

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Dentist

Dr. Sarita Adhikari

Since graduating in 2004, Dr. Sarita Adhikari has delivered preventative, cosmetic, and restorative dental care. She promotes patient education, empowering individuals to take active roles in managing their long-term oral health.

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Common Questions About Dental Fillings

Many patients have questions about dental fillings. Here are answers to common concerns about getting fillings and what to expect.

What are the different types of dental fillings?

Dental fillings are materials used to restore teeth affected by decay or minor fractures. The type of filling depends on your needs and the location of the tooth.

  • Composite fillings in Austral are tooth-coloured and designed to blend with your natural teeth. They are usually placed on the front teeth or areas that are more visible when smiling.
  • Amalgam fillings are silver in appearance and commonly placed on back teeth. They are made from a mix of metals and have been in use for many years.
  • Glass ionomer fillings are typically used in non-chewing areas or for baby teeth. They adhere well to the tooth and gradually release fluoride.
  • Gold and ceramic fillings are less common and may be suggested for cases where strength is important.
Your dentist will discuss which type of filling suits your tooth based on its condition and location.
The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and how much pressure the tooth handles each day.
  • Amalgam fillings are considered to have longer longevity than composite fillings, particularly in back teeth where chewing forces are greater.
  • In clinical studies, amalgam restorations have consistently shown longer survival times than composites when durability is measured as the main outcome.
  • Composite fillings have shown improvements over the years and may last several years with proper oral hygiene and placement in lower-stress areas.
  • Their success is influenced by factors like location in the mouth, the number of surfaces restored, and the patient’s caries risk.
  • A health technology assessment comparing both materials found that amalgam generally lasts longer than composite, although results vary across individual studies and patient conditions.
Regular check-ups help monitor the condition of your fillings in Austral. If your dentist notices any wear, cracks, or leakage, they will let you know if a replacement is needed.
Both composite and amalgam fillings have their uses. The right choice depends on the tooth’s location and your personal preferences.

Composite fillings:

  • Composite fillings are tooth-coloured and designed to match the shade of your natural teeth closely.
  • They are often recommended for front teeth or areas that are visible when you smile.
  • The material bonds directly to the tooth, which may allow more of the natural tooth to be preserved.
  • They may not last as long on back teeth that experience strong chewing forces.

Amalgam fillings:

  • Amalgam fillings are made from a mix of metals and appear silver in colour.
  • They are highly durable and are commonly used on molars and other chewing surfaces.
  • Their strength makes them suitable for teeth exposed to high pressure during eating.
  • They are more visible than composite fillings, especially on the front or upper teeth.

Your dentist will recommend the most suitable material based on the tooth’s position, your bite pressure, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene. For those who prioritise appearance, especially in front teeth, white fillings may be preferred.

 

Your dentist will recommend what suits the location, function, and long-term care of the tooth.

Delaying a filling can allow tooth decay to progress and affect deeper parts of the tooth.
  • The cavity can expand and weaken more of the natural tooth structure over time.
  • This may lead to increased sensitivity, especially when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods.
  • If the decay reaches the pulp, it may cause infection, swelling, or ongoing discomfort.
  • Extensive damage may require more involved procedures to support the tooth or the surrounding area.

Patients from Austral and surrounding suburbs are encouraged to seek early care to protect their natural teeth and avoid avoidable discomfort or costs.

Yes, a filling may still be recommended even if the tooth doesn’t hurt. Not all dental decay causes discomfort in the early stages.
  • Tooth decay can begin without noticeable symptoms, including pain or sensitivity.
  • A small cavity may only be visible on an X-ray or during a routine dental examination.
  • If left alone, the decay may grow and eventually lead to discomfort, infection, or further tooth damage.
  • Early care helps protect the tooth structure and may prevent the need for more involved procedures later.
Your dentist will assess the condition of the tooth and recommend the appropriate care, even if you’re not feeling any pain yet.
Fillings may need to be replaced if they become worn or damaged, or if new decay develops around the edges. The timing varies for each person.
  • A filling might remain stable for many years, but changes in your bite, oral habits, or diet can affect its condition over time.
  • Signs that a filling may need replacement include sensitivity, discomfort when chewing, or visible cracks or gaps.
  • Fillings can also loosen slightly or shift, which may allow bacteria to enter the space between the tooth and the material.
  • Tooth grinding, chewing on hard foods, or repeated stress on the same area may shorten the life of a filling.
  • In some cases, a filling may need replacement even if no symptoms are present, particularly if changes are seen during a dental check-up.
Your dentist will assess each filling during routine visits and recommend replacement only when it supports the long-term health of the tooth.
A tooth can be filled multiple times, depending on how much natural structure is left and its condition.
  • If a filling wears down, cracks, or develops decay around the edges, it may be replaced with a new one.
  • Each refill removes a small amount of tooth structure, which may weaken the tooth over time.
  • If a tooth has already been filled several times, your dentist may recommend a crown instead of another filling.
  • The choice depends on the size of the cavity, your bite pressure, and how much of the tooth remains intact.
Your dentist will examine the tooth and explain the most suitable option for supporting its strength and function.
Getting a dental filling is usually not painful. The process is straightforward, and the tooth is numbed to keep you comfortable throughout.
  • Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area so you don’t feel pain during the procedure.
  • You may feel pressure or vibration from the dental instruments, but these sensations do not usually cause discomfort.
  • Most patients describe the experience as manageable, especially once the anaesthetic takes effect.
  • The numbness usually wears off a few hours after the appointment.
If you feel anxious about dental care, you can talk to your dentist beforehand. They can walk you through the process to help you feel more at ease.
Some mild sensitivity or discomfort is possible once the numbness fades, but it usually settles within a few days.
  • You might feel slight pressure or soreness near the filled tooth, especially when chewing or biting.
  • Temperature sensitivity to hot or cold foods may occur, but this often improves within a few days to a week.
  • If the filling is too high, your bite may feel off, and the tooth may feel sore until the height is adjusted.
  • Persistent or increasing pain may be a sign that the filling needs to be checked or adjusted.

Let your dentist know if discomfort lasts more than a few days. They may assess your bite or examine the tooth to check whether healing is progressing as expected.

Yes, you can eat after a filling, but the timing and food choices depend on the type of material placed on the tooth.
  • If you received a composite filling, you can usually eat once the numbness from the anaesthetic wears off.
  • Wait until you can feel your lips and tongue again to avoid accidentally biting soft tissue.
  • Amalgam fillings may take a few hours to set fully, so your dentist may recommend delaying eating.
  • Soft foods are a more comfortable choice after a filling, especially if your tooth feels slightly sensitive.
  • Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods for the rest of the day to reduce pressure on the new filling.
Your dentist will provide guidance based on the type of filling used and your individual needs.
Yes, a filling can fall out, especially if it’s worn or damaged or if there’s decay around the edges.
  • Chewing hard or sticky foods, teeth grinding, or biting down on something unexpectedly can loosen a filling over time.
  • If a filling falls out, the exposed tooth may feel sensitive to temperature, pressure, or certain foods.
  • Avoid chewing on that side, and keep the area clean by rinsing gently with warm salt water.
  • Do not try to place anything in the space or use household adhesives, as this can cause more harm.
  • Contact your dentist as soon as possible to have the tooth examined and discuss next steps.
Timely care can help protect the tooth from further damage or decay after a filling comes out.

The cost of tooth fillings in Austral depends on the location of the tooth and how complex the filling is.


A simple filling on a front tooth usually ranges from $190 to $350, while a simple back tooth filling may cost between $200 and $550.


For more complex cases, a front tooth filling may range from $350 to $600, and a complex filling on a back tooth may cost up to $555.


Several factors may influence the final cost, including the size and depth of the cavity, the material selected, and how many teeth require attention during the visit.


You will always receive a personalised treatment plan with an itemised quote before any procedure begins, so you know exactly what to expect.

Yes, decay can still develop beneath or around a filling if bacteria enter through small gaps or damaged areas.
  • Over time, fillings can wear down, crack, or pull away slightly from the tooth surface.
  • When this happens, bacteria and food particles can enter the space between the filling and the tooth.
  • This may lead to decay under or around the filling, especially if it isn’t detected early.
  • Signs may include sensitivity, discomfort when chewing, or changes in the appearance of the filling.
  • Regular dental check-ups help monitor the condition of existing fillings and detect early signs of new decay.
If you notice changes in how your filling feels or looks, it’s a good idea to have it checked by your dentist.