What is a dental filling (restoration)?

A dental filling, or restoration, is a substance that dentists use to replace a decayed or broken portion of a tooth.

Commonly used substances for fillings include metal, alloy, plastic, porcelain or a combination of materials (composite). Composite resins are made from plastic materials (glass and resin) and are usually similar to tooth color. They are often used on the front teeth where a natural appearance is important. Composite resins can sometimes also be used on the back teeth.

A dental filling, which may be placed with a variety of materials, restores a fractured, chipped, decayed and sometimes worn tooth. When the tooth is extensively broken down, often a crown may be indicated to provide a more secure restoration that can help to prevent fracture and further breakdown of tooth structure.

When a tooth has extensive deterioration, a large filling can restore the tooth but not necessarily keep the weak areas from fracturing. Therefore, a new "filling" is not always the indicated treatment for a tooth with decay, fracture or very large older filling.