A filling is a way to restore a decayed tooth back to its normal shape and function. If you have a tooth that requires a filling, the dentist will first remove the decayed tooth material, clean the affected area and fill the cleaned-out cavity with a filling material. This filling will help prevent further decay by closing any cracks or spaces where bacteria might enter.
There are a variety of filling materials available, including gold, silver, plastic, and porcelain. We will work with you to determine which material is best for you, depending on the extent of repair, the location of the filling, and the cost. Each of the filling materials is briefly explained below:
Gold fillings are custom-made in a laboratory and then cemented into place. While gold fillings are often the most expensive choice, many consider gold the best filling material. Gold inlays are well-tolerated by gum tissues and may last more than 20 years.
Amalgam (silver) fillings are a more inexpensive choice and well-tolerated. However, their dark color makes them more noticeable than porcelain or composite restorations and are not recommended for fillings in very visible areas such as front teeth.
Composite (plastic) resin fillings are custom-made to the exact color of the patient’s teeth, creating a more natural appearance. While these white fillings may be less noticeable than other materials, they usually only last between 3 and 10 years. They may not be ideal for larger fillings as they may chip or wear over time. They can also become stained from coffee, tea, or tobacco.
Porcelain fillings, called inlays or onlays, are created in a lab and bonded to the tooth. They can be matched to the tooth’s color, they resist staining, and they cost about the same as gold fillings. A porcelain restoration generally covers most of the tooth, making the filling nearly undetectable.