"But It Doesn't Hurt"
The Dangerous Myth About Decay
Here’s something that might surprise you: tooth decay usually doesn’t hurt. In fact, most people walk around with cavities for months or even years without feeling a thing.
That’s not good news—it’s actually the problem.
By the time a cavity starts hurting, you’re often looking at root canal treatment, expensive crowns, or even losing the tooth altogether. What could have been a simple, affordable filling has become a major dental emergency.
Decay is Silent Until It's Serious
This is why so many of our Port Melbourne patients come to us in emergency situations, shocked that their “small” problem has become a major expense.

Cavities are literally holes developing in your teeth
from bacteria that are quietly eating away at your tooth structure. They start small, between teeth where you can’t see them, and grow larger over time.

You can't feel them forming
There are no nerve endings in the outer layers of your teeth, so decay can progress significantly before you experience any discomfort.

By the time pain hits, it's often too late for a simple filling
Pain means the bacteria have reached the nerve, and now you’re looking at thousands of dollars in treatment instead of a straightforward restoration.
The Pain of Putting Off Treatment
We see this scenario play out constantly: someone skips their regular checkups because “nothing hurts,” then suddenly they’re hit with excruciating pain at the worst possible time.
The financial pain hits hard. What could have been a $200-300 filling becomes a $3000+ root canal and crown procedure.
The physical pain is unbearable. Dental abscesses don’t wait for convenient timing. They strike during holidays, important meetings, or family events.
The emotional pain of regret. Knowing that early detection could have prevented all this suffering and expense.
The cycle continues. Emergency treatment often means compromising on quality just to get out of pain quickly.
Catching Problems While They're Still Small
What if you could detect decay before it becomes painful? What if fillings could be done so well they last indefinitely? What if dental treatment could actually strengthen your teeth instead of weakening them?

Modern dental technology makes this possible
With digital X-rays and high-powered magnification, we can spot the tiniest areas of decay between teeth that are invisible to the naked eye.

Advanced filling materials
can actually bond to your natural tooth structure, making the tooth stronger than it was before the cavity developed.

Proper technique
ensures your fillings last decades, not just a few years.
jacqueline elmer2025-06-18Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Staff were very professional and helpful, good conversation and assisted when required. Marianne Barrett2025-06-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Once again , another visit to the best team in town Thank you so much for allowing me to do this Root Canal . Yep it was a tad Painful . But What earth angels these dentists and their teams are . I’m so grateful Dr Mickhel and beautiful Perri. I am forever grateful . Also to Dr Fern you beautiful girl for talking me into saving that tooth . Love you all . Xx Vonny Spellman2025-04-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A wonderful team of professionals. Dr Arunditi Sharma made me feel important, not once did I feel judged or embarrassed. Arun made me feel relaxed and comfortable. I'm so grateful for this wonderful experience and I highly recommend Beacon Cove Dental to all. Dr. Shamistra Barathan2025-04-23Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing care at Beacon Dental Cove. I love how you took the time and utmost care and attention with my dental health. I wouldn’t go anywhere else. Thank you Dr Mikhil Nathoo and Dr Fern White! Carolyn Stephens2025-04-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Care and attention to detail, boutique dental with lovely people. I’m very happy with service and my healthy smile. natali nauman2025-03-26Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent and professional work, my dental clean perfectly done by Mikhil, I'm very happy with the results, highly recommend. Thank you so much. Rohan Bhojwani2025-03-25Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a fantastic experience at Beacon Cove Dental. The team is highly professional, friendly, and genuinely caring. From the moment I walked in, I felt at ease. They took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I was comfortable throughout my visit. The quality of care is outstanding, and I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a dentist who truly prioritizes patient well-being. Chyena Goodluck2025-03-21Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They truly prioritise preventative care instead of just waiting for problems to arise. The team is friendly, professional, and always takes the time to explain things clearly. If you're looking for a dentist who puts patients first, this is the place to go! Laura Jones2025-03-18Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Beacon Cove Dental team are amazing, highly recommend them Christine Tanod2025-03-17Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently had a dental makeover at Beacon Dove Dental with Dr. Mikhil and team, including veneers, bridge, crowns, and fillings, and I couldn’t be happier with the results! He and his team ensured everything looked natural, felt comfortable, and suited me perfectly. My smile looks so much better now! From start to finish, they were professional, caring, and detail-oriented, making the entire process smooth and stress-free. If you are looking for top-quality dental work with a team that truly cares about your smile, I highly recommend Dr. Mikhil and his team at Beacon Cove Dental!
Our Advanced Filling Approach in Port Melbourne

Early Detection Technology
We use digital X-rays and specialized magnification to find decay in its earliest stages, often before it’s visible or causes any symptoms. This allows us to:
- Treat problems while they’re small and affordable
- Preserve maximum healthy tooth structure
- Prevent the need for more complex treatments

Mercury-Free, Biocompatible Materials
Why we only use resin composite fillings:
- No toxic metals – We’ve eliminated amalgam (mercury) fillings entirely
- Bonds to natural tooth structure – Actually strengthens the tooth
- Matches your natural tooth color – Invisible repairs
Preserves healthy tooth structure – No unnecessary drilling

Precision Technique for Lasting Results
Rubber dam isolation: Every filling is done under rubber dam protection to:
- Keep moisture away from the filling site
- Ensure optimal bonding conditions
- Prevent contamination during the procedure
- Improve the longevity of your restoration
Incremental resin layering: We build your filling in precise layers to:
- Ensure complete bonding at each level
- Minimize shrinkage and gaps
- Create a seamless seal that lasts indefinitely
- Match the natural translucency of your tooth

Why Our Fillings Last Longer
Proper isolation techniques – Moisture is the enemy of dental bonding. Our rubber dam protocol ensures optimal conditions every time.
High-quality materials – We use premium biocompatible composites that integrate with your natural tooth structure.
Meticulous layering – Building fillings incrementally ensures complete bonding and eliminates weak spots.
Comprehensive curing – Each layer is properly set before adding the next, creating a strong, lasting restoration.
Before and After Gallery

The Beacon Cove Difference: Fillings That Strengthen Your Teeth
We don’t just fill holes—we restore strength.
Our bonded resin fillings actually make your tooth stronger than it was before decay weakened it.
We eliminate toxic materials.
No mercury, no metal allergies, no concerning chemicals leaching into your system.
We focus on prevention.
By catching decay early with regular checkups, we keep treatments simple and affordable.
We use advanced techniques
that ensure your fillings last for decades, not just a few years.

Your Path to Healthy, Strong Teeth
Regular Prevention Checkups
The best filling is the one you never need. Our comprehensive exams use advanced technology to catch problems before they become painful or expensive.
Early Intervention
When we do find decay, we treat it immediately while it’s still small. This preserves your natural tooth structure and keeps costs manageable.
Advanced Treatment
If you need fillings, they’re done with meticulous attention to detail using the latest materials and techniques for lasting results.
Ongoing Care
We monitor all our work over time, ensuring your fillings continue to perform perfectly for years to come.

Don't Wait for Pain to Strike
Pain is not a reliable indicator of dental problems.
By the time something hurts, you’ve often missed the opportunity for simple, affordable treatment.
Regular checkups save money and prevent emergencies.
The small investment in preventive care pays huge dividends in avoided pain and expense.
Modern fillings done right can last indefinitely.
When you choose quality materials and expert technique, your teeth can be stronger than ever.