A filling is a type of dental restoration used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. It helps restore the structure and function of teeth that are chipped, fractured, worn, or broken.

There are two types of fillings:

• Direct fillings are applied, shaped, and adjusted directly in the mouth using materials like amalgam or composite resin.
• Indirect fillings (inlays or onlays) are custom-made outside the mouth and then bonded to the tooth for a more precise fit and durable restoration.

Both options help restore the health and appearance of your smile.

Fillings serve several important functions in dental care:

• Restore lost tooth structure after decay or infection has been removed.
• Repair and rebuild the shape and function of a tooth that is broken, chipped, or worn.
• Protect the tooth from further damage or decay, ensuring long-term health.
• Enhance aesthetics, particularly for front teeth, restoring a natural and attractive appearance to your smile.

Here are the common types of dental restorations:

• Amalgam (silver filling)
• Composite resin (bonding or tooth-colored filling)
• Inlay (made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold)
• Onlay (crafted from porcelain, composite resin, or gold)

Each option is tailored to your specific dental needs and aesthetic preferences.

Amalgam fillings are secured in the tooth through a mechanical process. When the dentist prepares the tooth, they shape it in a way that helps the amalgam lock into place. The amalgam material is packed into the cavity in layers and gradually hardens. Once fully set, the amalgam becomes a solid mass.

The dentist then carves and shapes the filling to restore the tooth’s original structure. Finally, they adjust your bite (occlusion) to ensure proper alignment and comfort.

Amalgam is an alloy composed of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. The mercury binds these metals together during the mixing process, and once combined, its chemical structure changes, rendering it essentially harmless. Over the past 100 years, extensive scientific studies have confirmed the safety of dental amalgams. However, discussions about the use of mercury in amalgams continue, with ongoing debates in the dental community.

Composite resins are bonded to the tooth using a special adhesive, creating a strong, secure hold. The filling material itself is a tooth-colored resin, designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. A bonding agent, or "glue," is applied to fuse the composite to the tooth structure.

The composite is placed in layers into the prepared cavity and cured (hardened) using a special light. Once hardened, the filling is shaped and polished to restore the tooth’s appearance. Lastly, the dentist adjusts your bite (occlusion) for comfort and proper alignment.

Amalgam fillings are typically more affordable than composite options and are known for their long-lasting durability. However, they are not tooth-colored, which can affect aesthetics, especially in visible areas. Over time, amalgam fillings may cause craze lines, cracks, or fractures in the tooth due to their tendency to expand and contract with temperature changes.

Inlays are a type of indirect restoration, crafted outside of the mouth, typically from porcelain for its durability and natural appearance. Dentists often recommend inlays when a larger portion of the tooth structure needs to be replaced, offering an alternative to amalgam or composite fillings. Once the inlay is custom-made, it is securely cemented into the tooth, providing a strong and long-lasting restoration.

Onlays are similar to inlays but are designed to replace a larger portion of tooth structure. Typically crafted from porcelain, onlays offer both strength and a natural appearance. The dentist first takes an impression of the prepared tooth, and the onlay is custom-made at a dental laboratory. Once completed, the onlay is securely cemented onto the tooth, providing a durable and effective restoration.

Zirconia is a metal-free, biocompatible material, meaning it works harmoniously with your body and minimizes the risk of rejection or immune response. This is particularly beneficial for patients with allergies or autoimmune conditions like Crohn’s Disease or lupus, where avoiding metal is crucial for long-term health.

Zirconia implants are hypoallergenic, eliminating concerns about metal allergies or sensitivities that can lead to redness, inflammation, or even bone loss. Patients can feel confident knowing they are choosing a material that won’t trigger adverse reactions.

Unlike titanium implants, which can show through the gums as a gray tint, zirconia implants are tooth-colored, ensuring a natural, seamless appearance. No one will be able to tell you’ve had dental implants.

Often referred to as "ceramic steel," zirconia is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and corrosion. Zirconia implants allow patients to enjoy their favorite foods without the worry of shifting or breaking.

Zirconia implants attract less plaque and bacteria compared to metal implants, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and reduce the risk of infections or gum disease.

Zirconia is non-conductive, meaning it doesn’t attract heat or electrical currents like metal implants can. This ensures a more comfortable experience for patients with sensitivities to temperature changes or electromagnetic fields.