Fillings

Tooth decay is called a cavity. The decay can spread, become larger, and even lead to tooth loss is not taken care of promptly. If a cavity becomes deep enough, bacteria in the mouth may have a chance to enter into the body. A cavity should be repaired as soon as possible.

When a cavity is repaired, the decay is removed from the tooth, leaving a defect or a hole in the tooth enamel. Dental material (called a filling) is then used to fill the hole.

Cavity repair and fillings are the most common dental procedure performed. This procedure is simple and painless. Numbing medication is injected at the base of the tooth to be filled. When totally numb, the tooth is prepped by removing the decay, and the filling is applied to restore the tooth to its normal shape.

Several types of fillings are available to choose from, depending on the cosmetic appearance desired and patient budget. Gold is the strongest material available and can last 10 to 15 years. It is also the most expensive.

Silver amalgam is also strong and can last 10 to 15 years. Patients tend to prefer to use the silver fillings in the back teeth, where it is less noticeable, but the amalgam is a good choice for the back teeth because the chewing forces there are stronger.

Porcelain fillings are typically called onlays or inlays and are used for larger enamel defects. It is easily color-matched but is also a more expensive option.

Composite resin fillings are the most common type used. They are easily color-matched, more economical, and require less enamel to be removed before administration.