Dental filling is a common restorative dental procedure used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay, wear, or minor fractures. The goal of a filling is to restore the tooth’s function, strength, and shape, while preventing further decay.

Common filling materials include:

• • Composite resin (tooth-colored, aesthetic)

  • Amalgam (silver-colored, very durable)

  • Glass ionomer (releases fluoride, often used in kids or near the gumline)

  • Gold or porcelain (used in inlays/onlays, more costly)

Benefits:

• Stops decay from spreading

• Restores natural look and bite

• Strengthens and protects the remaining tooth structure

Dental fillings are quick, typically completed in one visit, and essential for maintaining oral health when tooth decay is present.