Fillings

A dental filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape. 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 off any cracks or spaces where bacteria might enter.

There are a variety of dental filling materials available including gold, silver, resin and porcelain. We will work with you to determine which material is best for you depending on where in your mouth the filling is needed, the extent of the repair 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 are also well tolerated. However, due to their dark color, they are more noticeable than porcelain or composite restorations and are not recommended for fillings in very visible areas such as front teeth.

Composite resins 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 three and ten years. They may not be ideal for large fillings, as they may chip or wear over time. They can also become stained from coffee, tea or tobacco.

Porcelain fillings are created in a lab and then bonded to the tooth. They are about the same cost as gold fillings, and they can be matched to the color of the tooth and resist staining. A porcelain restoration generally covers most of the tooth, making the filling nearly undetectable.