Fillings, crowns and bridges in Box Hill North
When a tooth is damaged by decay, wear or a crack, restorative treatment rebuilds it so it works again. Which option suits depends on how much sound tooth is left.
Choosing between a filling, an onlay and a crown
The decision is mostly about how much healthy tooth structure remains. A small cavity is restored with a tooth-coloured composite filling, bonded directly and finished in a single visit. Once a cavity is large, or a cusp has broken away, a filling has less to hold on to and the remaining walls of the tooth are at risk of splitting — that is the point at which an onlay or crown, which wraps and supports the tooth, becomes the more durable choice.
A bridge replaces a missing tooth by joining to the teeth either side. It is fixed rather than removable, but it requires those neighbouring teeth to be prepared, which means removing healthy enamel from them. That trade-off is why an implant is sometimes the better option, and why we go through both before you decide.
What we provide
Every option below is carried out at our Box Hill North practice.
Tooth-coloured fillings
Composite resin bonded into the prepared cavity and shaped to match the tooth. Completed in one visit. Composite can stain at the margins over time and does eventually need replacing.
Crowns
A custom-made cap that covers the whole tooth, used where a large portion has been lost or after root canal treatment. Usually two appointments, with a temporary crown in between.
Bridges
A fixed replacement for one or more missing teeth, supported by the teeth either side. Requires preparation of those supporting teeth.
Onlays
A laboratory-made restoration that rebuilds one or more cusps while preserving more natural tooth than a full crown.
Repairs and replacements
Recementing a crown that has come off, replacing a failed filling, or repairing a chipped restoration.
Dentures and partials
Removable replacements for several missing teeth, made to fit your mouth and reviewed as the gums settle.
What to expect, and what can go wrong
Most restorative work is done under local anaesthetic. We use topical gel before the injection and will stop whenever you ask us to. Sensitivity to hot and cold for days or occasionally weeks afterwards is common and usually settles.
No restoration lasts forever. Fillings wear, chip and can leak at the edges. Crowns can debond or fracture, and the tooth underneath can still decay at the margin or need root canal treatment later. Bridges place extra load on the supporting teeth. Teeth that have been heavily restored are more likely to crack. Good cleaning, regular reviews and avoiding very hard foods all extend the life of the work, but none of it is a guarantee.
You will have a written itemised quote with item numbers before treatment starts. HICAPS is on site for immediate health fund claiming.
Common questions
How long will a filling last?
It varies a great deal with size, position, your bite and how you clean. Some last many years, some need replacing sooner. We check existing restorations at every examination.
Can I have a white filling instead of a silver one?
Composite is what we use for new fillings in most situations. Whether it is suitable depends on the size and position of the cavity and how well the area can be kept dry while it is bonded.
Why do I need a crown instead of another filling?
Because there is not enough sound tooth left to hold a filling securely, and the remaining walls are at risk of fracturing. A crown wraps and supports what is left.
Is a bridge or an implant better?
Neither is better in general. A bridge is quicker and does not need surgery but involves cutting down the adjacent teeth. An implant leaves neighbouring teeth alone but takes months and is not suitable for everyone. We will set out both for your situation.
How much will it cost?
It depends entirely on what is needed. You will get a written itemised quote before anything goes ahead, and we will tell you what your fund is likely to contribute.
Related pages
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Replacing a missing tooth without cutting down the teeth either side.
Whitening, bonding and veneers — with the trade-offs set out before you decide.
Book a restorative consultation
579 Middleborough Rd, Box Hill North VIC 3129. Off-street parking at the door.
This page is general information and not a diagnosis. Your treatment depends on an examination by a registered dental practitioner.