Dental fillings are a common procedure used to restore teeth damaged by decay back to their normal function and shape. When a dentist gives you a filling, he or she first removes the decayed tooth material, cleans the affected area, and then fills the cleaned-out cavity with a filling material.

 

The filling materials available today include:

 

• Gold Fillings: These are well-tolerated by gum tissues and may last more than 20 years. For these reasons, many experts consider gold the best filling material. However, it is often the most expensive choice and requires multiple visits.

• Amalgam (Silver) Fillings: These are resistant to wear and relatively inexpensive. However, due to their dark color, they are more noticeable than porcelain or composite restorations and are not usually used in very visible areas.

• Composite (Plastic) Resin Fillings: These are matched to be the same color as your teeth and therefore used where a natural appearance is desired. The ingredients are mixed and placed directly into the cavity, where they harden. However, these may not be the ideal material for large fillings as they may chip or wear over time. They can also become stained from coffee, tea, or tobacco.

• Porcelain Fillings: These are called inlays or onlays and are produced in a lab and then bonded to the tooth. They can be matched to the color of the tooth and resist staining. Their cost is similar to gold.

​

The process of getting a dental filling involves numbing the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic, removing the decayed area, inspecting the area once more to ensure all decay has been removed, and then filling the space with one of the materials described above. The filling will then be polished for comfort and aesthetics.

 

Regular oral care, including brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups with your dentist, can enhance the lifespan of your dental filling and promote overall oral health.