A dental filling is a way to restore a tooth that is cracked or damaged by decay. By “filling” the spaces where bacteria can enter, fillings help to prevent further damage and decay from affecting the tooth. In order to fill a tooth, we will first remove the decay, clean the affected area, then fill the cavity with filling material.

There are various types of dental filling material, including:

• Composite (plastic) resins – these are used where a natural appearance is desired, as it matches the colour of your teeth. Composites may not be the ideal material for large fillings as they may chip or wear over time.
• Porcelain fillings - these are also called inlays or onlays. They can be matched to the colour of the tooth and are stain resistant. A porcelain restoration generally covers most of the tooth.