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Dental Fillings

Reliable, natural-looking restorations for decay — completed efficiently so you can get back to your day.

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At a Glance

Duration

30–60 min

Visits

1 visit

Estimated Cost

$150 – $350 per tooth

Recovery

None — eat normally once numbness wears off

Insurance

Partially covered by most funds

Location

488 Bourke St, Melbourne CBD

Read detailed information

Why a Small Cavity Deserves Prompt Attention

Tooth decay rarely announces itself dramatically. In its early stages, a cavity may cause no discomfort at all — which is precisely what makes it easy to postpone. For professionals managing back-to-back meetings, court appearances, or quarterly deadlines, a dental filling can feel like something that will keep until next month.

The difficulty is that decay does not pause for your schedule. What begins as a minor area of demineralisation can progress through the enamel and into the softer dentine layer beneath. Left untreated, a cavity that could have been addressed in a single short appointment may eventually require more extensive treatment — potentially a crown, root canal therapy, or in some cases, extraction.

Early intervention is consistently the most straightforward path. A filling placed while decay is small preserves more of your natural tooth structure, typically involves a shorter appointment, and helps avoid the disruption of more complex procedures down the line.

How Dental Fillings Work

A dental filling restores a tooth that has been damaged by decay. The process involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the area thoroughly, and filling the prepared space with a restorative material that bonds to the remaining tooth structure. The goal is to return the tooth to its normal function and shape while sealing out bacteria that could cause further damage.

Dr Zamani primarily uses tooth-coloured composite resin for fillings. Composite is applied in layers, with each layer hardened using a curing light before the next is placed. This technique allows the material to be shaped precisely to match the contours of your tooth, including the grooves and ridges that make chewing effective. Once complete, the filling is polished smooth and adjusted so your bite feels natural.

Composite resin is matched to the shade of your existing teeth, which means fillings on visible teeth blend in rather than standing out. This makes composite a practical choice for both front and back teeth. The material bonds directly to the tooth surface, which can help support the remaining structure rather than relying solely on mechanical retention.

Most fillings are completed in a single visit. The length of the appointment depends on the size and location of the cavity, but straightforward fillings are typically finished within 30 to 45 minutes. For patients who feel anxious about dental procedures, Dr Zamani takes a gentle, communicative approach — explaining each step before it happens so there are no surprises.

Why Patients Choose Dr Zamani for Restorative Care

With over twenty years of clinical experience and a long-standing practice in Melbourne's CBD, Dr Zamani has restored thousands of teeth across every stage of decay. That depth of experience translates into efficient, considered treatment — she can assess the extent of a cavity accurately and complete the restoration with minimal disruption to your day.

As a solo practitioner, Dr Zamani provides continuity that larger group practices often cannot. She knows your dental history, understands your preferences, and can track how previous restorations are holding up over time. This ongoing relationship means subtle changes are noticed early, before they become problems that demand urgent attention.

Located on Level 6 at 488 Bourke Street, the practice is accessible during working hours for professionals in the legal precinct and surrounding CBD. Appointments are structured to respect your time — Dr Zamani runs on schedule wherever possible, because she understands that an overrun appointment can cascade through your entire afternoon.

What to Expect

1

Assessment

Dr Zamani examines the tooth, takes any necessary X-rays, and discusses the findings with you. She explains the size and location of the decay, outlines the recommended approach, and answers your questions before any work begins.

2

Restoration

The decayed portion is carefully removed, the tooth is cleaned and prepared, and composite resin is placed in layers. Each layer is shaped and cured, then the filling is polished and your bite is checked to ensure it feels comfortable and natural.

3

Follow-Up

Dr Zamani provides aftercare guidance and monitors the restoration at your regular check-up appointments. Composite fillings are checked for wear and integrity over time, ensuring the tooth continues to function well for as long as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a tooth filling take?

Most fillings are completed in a single appointment lasting 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity. For smaller fillings, you could be in and out during your lunch break from the Melbourne CBD office. Larger or multiple fillings may require a longer session or a follow-up visit.

What types of filling materials do you use?

We primarily use tooth-coloured composite resin fillings, which blend naturally with your existing teeth. Dr Zamani will assess your specific situation and recommend the most suitable material based on the location of the cavity, the amount of tooth structure remaining, and your bite. In some cases, ceramic or other materials may be discussed.

How much do fillings cost in Melbourne?

The cost of a filling varies depending on the size, location, and material used. A standard composite filling typically ranges from $150 to $350 per tooth. We provide an itemised treatment plan with costs before any work begins, so there are no surprises. Most private health funds with dental extras cover a portion of filling costs.

Will getting a filling hurt?

Dr Zamani uses local anaesthetic to numb the area, so you should feel comfortable throughout the procedure. We take a gentle approach and check in with you during treatment to make sure you are at ease. Some patients experience mild sensitivity in the tooth for a few days afterwards, which usually settles on its own.

How do I know if I need a filling?

Common signs include tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, visible dark spots or holes in a tooth, and pain when biting down. However, many cavities develop without noticeable symptoms, which is why regular check-ups and dental X-rays are important for early detection. Catching decay early often means a smaller, simpler filling.

Can I eat and drink normally after a filling?

With composite resin fillings, the material is set hard before you leave the chair, so you can eat and drink as soon as the numbness wears off, usually within one to two hours. We recommend avoiding very hot or very hard foods for the rest of the day. If you have a lunch meeting back at the office, you should be fine to eat comfortably.

How long do tooth fillings last?

Composite resin fillings generally last between 5 and 15 years, depending on factors like the size of the filling, where it is in your mouth, and your oral hygiene habits. Grinding or clenching your teeth can shorten the lifespan of a filling. Regular check-ups help us monitor your fillings and address any wear before it becomes a bigger issue.

Can you replace my old metal fillings with tooth-coloured ones?

Yes, old amalgam fillings can be replaced with tooth-coloured composite resin when they are worn, cracked, or if you prefer a more natural appearance. We follow safe removal protocols when taking out old amalgam fillings. During your appointment at our Melbourne CBD practice, we can assess your existing fillings and discuss whether replacement is appropriate for your situation.

Book Your Appointment

If you suspect a cavity or it has been a while since your last check-up, get in touch. Early treatment is simpler, faster, and preserves more of your natural tooth.