For hundreds of years, dental fillings have
been used to restore teeth. Dental fillings are placed in teeth where a
dentist has had to remove tooth structure due to decay or fracture. In recent
years filling materials have been substantially improved by many technological
advancements. Although silver amalgam was the dominant choice years ago,
today we have several other preferred options for tooth restoration including
tooth colored composite filling materials and cementable resins and porcelains.
Decayed teeth require fillings to restore strength and health of natural teeth.
The decayed portion of the tooth is removed from the sound tooth structure.
Filling materials is shaped to match the look and feel of natural teeth. Traditionally, silver or amalgam material has been the filling of choice.
Today, many modern materials can be used to mimic the color and texture of natural teeth.