A small cavity rarely announces itself. It can sit quietly for months, then ache at the worst time. A filling is a routine way to treat decay early, before it turns into something bigger.
What a filling does and why it helps
Decay happens when acid from plaque wears through enamel and softens the tooth underneath. A filling treats it. The dentist removes the decayed part, cleans the area, then rebuilds the tooth with a material so it works normally again. Most fillings use a tooth coloured resin that blends in.
The benefit is dealing with a small problem while it is still small. Decay does not heal on its own once it breaks through enamel, so treating it early usually means a quicker visit and a lower cost than waiting.
- 1/Stops decay spreading deeper into the tooth
- 2/Helps you keep your natural tooth
- 3/Restores comfortable chewing
- 4/Often avoids a root canal, crown or extraction later
What can happen if you leave it
Untreated decay keeps moving toward the nerve, which is often when a niggle becomes real toothache. If bacteria reach the nerve, the tooth can become infected and may then need a root canal or removal. The New Zealand Dental Association and Health New Zealand encourage people to see a dentist early rather than wait for pain.
Decay near the gumline or between teeth also traps plaque, which can irritate the gum and leave it red or bleeding. A well shaped filling removes that trap so floss slides through more easily. It will not cure gum disease on its own, but alongside good brushing and flossing it helps keep the gum around that tooth healthy.
Help with the cost
We give a written quote before any work starts. If you are on a low income or a benefit, Work and Income may help with immediate and essential treatment, which can include fillings, up to $1,000 over a 52 week period that you do not pay back if you meet the criteria. It is income and asset tested, and we can prepare and lodge the quote for you.
If you have Southern Cross cover with dental benefits, our Easy-Claim facility lets eligible members claim their part on the spot. If a tooth was damaged in an accident, ACC may contribute and we can lodge that claim. We also accept Afterpay, and a first exam with digital X-rays is $79.
Coming to see us
You will find Supertooth Dental Auckland at the Auckland Airport Shopping Centre, with free parking at the door, open on Sundays. We take our time with nervous patients. To book, phone 09 964 0508 or text 022 852 4000.
Quick questions
- Does getting a filling hurt?
- The area is usually numbed with local anaesthetic first, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. Tell us if you are anxious and we will go at your pace.
- How long does a filling last?
- It varies. A filling can last several years with good brushing, flossing and regular check-ups, but no filling is permanent and it may need replacing over time.
- Will Work and Income pay for my filling?
- They may, if the treatment is immediate and essential and you meet the income and asset criteria. We are registered with Work and Income and can lodge the quote for you.
Sources: New Zealand Dental Association · Ministry of Health New Zealand and Health New Zealand (Te Whatu Ora) · Work and Income, Ministry of Social Development, Special Needs Grant for dental treatment · ACC · Southern Cross Health Insurance. This article is general information, not a substitute for an examination and personal advice from a dentist. If you're in pain or unsure, book a visit or call 09 964 0508.
