Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Family dental care in Glen Iris

Why Old Fillings Need to Be Replaced – Glen Iris Dental Guide

Dental fillings don’t last forever. Over time, they can weaken, crack, or develop decay around their edges. In many Glen Iris patients, worn fillings also cause sensitivity or soreness in the tooth underneath. When this happens, it usually means a small gap has formed between the filling and the natural tooth. This tiny space can trap bacteria, eventually allowing decay to reach the pulp and potentially cause an abscess.

Below are the most common reasons we replace old fillings here at Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris:

Why Fillings Need to Be Replaced

1. Decay around the filling

When bacteria collect around an ageing filling, new decay can develop. If not treated, this can spread deeper and require root canal treatment.

2. Cracks or structural damage

Old fillings—particularly large metal amalgam ones—can contribute to cracks forming in the tooth. These cracks can cause pain, sensitivity, and may eventually lead to a fracture.

3. Cosmetic concerns

Amalgam fillings can give teeth a dark, shadowed appearance. This happens because metal ions gradually migrate into the tooth structure.

4. Personal preference

Some patients wish to replace older metal fillings due to concerns about mercury content or simply to upgrade to natural-looking white fillings.

5. When a filling falls out

If a filling has loosened or fallen out, it must be replaced promptly to prevent infection or further damage.

Amalgam Fillings – 

For decades, amalgam (silver) fillings were the standard treatment for cavities. These fillings were made from a mixture of silver, tin, copper and liquid mercury, forming a strong and long-lasting metal alloy. They were widely used because they were durable, cost-effective, and easy to place.

However, over time dentists discovered several drawbacks:

Temperature Expansion and Contraction

Amalgam fillings expand in heat and contract in cold. This constant movement can place stress on the surrounding tooth structure.

Corrosion Over Time

Amalgam fillings can oxidise or “rust.” This corrosion weakens the bond between the filling and the tooth.

Cracking of Tooth Structure

Because amalgam doesn’t bond to the tooth, it can act like a wedge. As it expands and contracts, it can cause the surrounding tooth walls to crack.
Many Glen Iris patients come to us because a large old metal filling has caused a significant fracture.

Appearance

Amalgam fillings darken the tooth, and many patients now prefer tooth-coloured options.

For these reasons, a large number of people around Glen Iris are choosing to have their old metal fillings replaced with safer, stronger and more natural-looking alternatives.

Modern Alternatives to Amalgam Fillings4e

Thanks to major advancements in dental materials, we now offer several excellent alternatives at Tooronga Family Dentistry, including:

Composite Resin (White Fillings)

A natural-looking option that bonds directly to the tooth, strengthening the remaining structure.

Porcelain

Highly aesthetic, stain-resistant and ideal for larger restorations such as inlays, onlays, or crowns.

Zirconia

Extremely strong and durable—an excellent choice for back teeth or patients who grind.

Gold

Still considered one of the most durable materials available, though used less commonly today.

Dr. Daniel Kaufman  will explain the benefits of each material and help you choose the best option for your tooth, your smile and your long-term oral health.

If You Need a Filling Replaced in Glen Iris

If you have an old filling that looks dark, feels sensitive, or may be cracked, it’s best to have it assessed promptly. You can book online or 👉Call

📍 Serving Glen Iris, Tooronga, Malvern & Hawthorn East

Types of Dental Fillings: Understanding Your Options at Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

When a tooth breaks or develops decay, it needs to be restored to its original shape, strength, and function. Today, there are several types of materials available for dental fillings, and each one has unique advantages. Understanding these differences helps you make informed decisions about your dental care.

At Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris, we offer a wide range of modern, durable, and aesthetic filling materials to suit your individual needs.

1. Composite (Tooth-Coloured) Fillings

Composite fillings have evolved significantly over the past 40 years and are now considered one of the best restorative materials for most situations. They are made from a blend of resin and tiny glass or ceramic particles. The smaller these particles are—known as nano fillers—the smoother, stronger, and more durable the final restoration becomes.

Benefits of composite fillings:

  • Reinforce and strengthen the remaining tooth structure

  • Bond to the tooth, allowing for more conservative (minimal drilling) treatment

  • Match the natural colour of your teeth for an aesthetic result

  • Do not conduct heat or cold, helping reduce sensitivity

  • Suitable for restoring small and large portions of a tooth

These are the most commonly used fillings in our Glen Iris practice due to their excellent performance and appearance.

2. Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

Amalgam has been used for over 150 years. It is a mixture of silver, copper, tin, and mercury that sets into a strong and durable filling.

Advantages:

  • Low cost

  • Long track record of durability

Disadvantages:

  • Contains mercury

  • Does not reinforce the tooth; may weaken thin enamel areas

  • Can cause temperature sensitivity due to heat conduction

  • Requires more removal of healthy tooth structure compared to composite

  • Silver appearance is less aesthetic

While still effective in certain cases, amalgam is used far less frequently today.

3. Ceramic (Porcelain) Restorations

Ceramic fillings or inlays/onlays are made in a dental laboratory and offer outstanding strength, durability, and aesthetics. They are ideal for visible areas such as front teeth or larger restorations where beauty and longevity matter.

Benefits:

  • Very natural appearance

  • Smooth, strong, and long-lasting

  • Bond securely to the tooth

Disadvantages:

  • Higher cost than other filling materials

  • Require additional time to be designed and fabricated

We use ceramic restorations extensively for veneers and larger aesthetic cases.

4. Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC)

Glass ionomer fillings are made of glass particles mixed with acrylic resin. They are not as strong as composite or ceramic, so their lifespan is usually under five years.

Best used for:

  • Baby teeth

  • Areas with exposed root surfaces

  • Cases with high risk of decay

Key advantage:

  • Release fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from further decay

These are particularly helpful for young children and patients with sensitivity or root exposure.

5. Gold Restorations

Gold fillings and crowns have been used for hundreds of years and remain one of the most durable materials available. They can be made from 14k, 18k, or 24k gold.

Benefits:

  • Extremely durable—can last over 30 years

  • Non-corrosive and biocompatible

  • Excellent fit

Disadvantages:

  • High cost

  • Gold appearance is less aesthetic

  • Typically reserved for back teeth where they won’t show

Gold remains an excellent choice for longevity and strength.

Which Filling Material Is Right for You?

The ideal filling material depends on:

  • Tooth location

  • Size of the cavity

  • Aesthetic considerations

  • Your bite

  • Budget

  • Long-term treatment goals

At Tooronga Family Dentistry, we carefully assess your needs and recommend the most suitable option.

To learn more about dental fillings or to book an appointment with Dr Daniel Kaufman, please 👉Call or book online Tooronga Family Dentistry on (03) 9822 7006.

📍 We proudly care for the smiles of the Glen Iris, Tooronga, Malvern and Hawthorn East communities.