A dental filling repairs a tooth that's been damaged by decay. Your dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills the space with a durable material, restoring its shape and strength and stopping the decay from spreading. Today, many fillings are tooth-colored, so they blend in with your natural teeth.
Why fillings are necessary
A cavity doesn't heal once it has formed a hole. Left alone, decay moves deeper into the tooth, where it can reach the nerve and cause pain or infection — and then need a root canal or extraction instead of a simple filling. Filling a cavity early protects the tooth and is usually the simplest, least costly fix. Not sure whether you have one? See how to know if you have a cavity.
Types of dental fillings
Tooth-colored (composite) fillings
Composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin that's shade-matched to your teeth, so they're barely noticeable. The material bonds directly to the tooth, which often means less healthy tooth structure needs to be removed. Composite is a popular choice for front teeth and for most small to medium cavities on back teeth.
Silver (amalgam) fillings
Amalgam is a durable metal alloy that has been used for many years, especially on back teeth that take heavy chewing force. Its silver color makes it more visible than composite.
Ceramic and porcelain fillings
Ceramic inlays and onlays are custom-made in a lab and bonded into the tooth. They're tooth-colored, stain-resistant, and durable, and are often used for larger repairs.
Gold fillings
Gold inlays and onlays are very durable and gentle on opposing teeth, but they're the most noticeable and typically the highest cost.
Tooth-colored fillings vs. silver fillings
- Appearance: composite blends in; amalgam is visible.
- Tooth structure: composite bonds to the tooth, often allowing a more conservative repair.
- Durability: both hold up well; amalgam has a long track record on heavy-chewing back teeth.
- Replacing old fillings: if you have older silver fillings, your dentist can check their condition and talk with you about whether replacing them with tooth-colored material makes sense.
What to expect when you get a filling
- Your dentist numbs the area.
- The decayed part of the tooth is removed.
- The space is cleaned and filled. Composite is placed in layers and hardened with a curing light.
- The filling is shaped and polished, and your bite is checked.
Most fillings are done in a single visit. For more on comfort, see do dental fillings hurt, and if one comes loose later, see what to do if a filling falls out.
How long do fillings last?
How long a filling lasts depends on the material, its size and location, and habits like grinding or chewing ice. Your dentist checks your fillings at regular visits and will let you know if one needs repair or replacement.
Fillings vs. sealants
A filling repairs an existing cavity; a sealant is a protective coating that helps prevent one. Learn more in dental sealants vs. fillings.
Frequently asked questions
What is a dental filling?
A filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay. Your dentist removes the decayed area and fills the space with a durable material to restore the tooth's shape and strength and stop the decay from spreading.
What are tooth-colored fillings made of?
Tooth-colored fillings are usually made of composite resin, a material that's shade-matched to your natural teeth. It bonds directly to the tooth, so it blends in and often requires removing less healthy tooth structure.
Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver fillings?
Both hold up well for most cavities. Silver amalgam has a long track record on heavy-chewing back teeth, while composite offers a natural look and a bonded repair. Your dentist recommends the best material for each tooth.
Can I replace my silver fillings with tooth-colored ones?
Often, yes. Your dentist can check the condition of your existing fillings and discuss whether replacing them with tooth-colored material makes sense for you.
Does getting a filling hurt?
The area is numbed first, so most people feel pressure but not pain. Some mild sensitivity for a few days afterward is normal.
How long do fillings last?
It depends on the material, the size and location of the filling, and habits like grinding. Your dentist checks your fillings at regular visits and lets you know if one needs attention.
Think you need a filling?
A quick exam will show whether a cavity needs treatment and which filling material fits. New guests can start with a $39 new-guest exam and X-rays. Find your nearest Ideal Dental.