A filling is a simple repair for a cavity in a tooth. It fills the hole and keeps bacteria from entering your tooth and causing more decay. Let’s look at a few types of dental fillings.
Amalgam fillings
Fillings that are silver-colored are called “amalgam” fillings. They’re made of a mixture of metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. These fillings have been safely used for more than one hundred years and are less expensive than other options. They can be used to fill large cavities and are often a good choice for cavities in your back teeth.
Composite fillings
Fillings that are tooth-colored are called “composite” fillings which are made of a mixture of glass and plastic. Composite fillings can be used for small and medium-sized cavities. They are a good option for teeth in the front of your mouth, because they are the same color as your teeth. However, composites are more costly than amalgam fillings, and are not as strong.
Other types
Less common types of fillings include those made of gold or porcelain. These are the most expensive options. Gold fillings are very strong and long-lasting, while Porcelain fillings are more fragile, but they look like real teeth. These fillings may require more than one dental visit.
If you need to have a filling, talk to your dentist about your options. Your dentist will help you decide the type that’s right for you.