Wondering about the types of dental fillings and which one best fits your needs? This page explains how teeth filling works, the materials dentists commonly use, and what happens during treatment, so you can make confident choices with your dental care team. Understanding what fillings are is key to keeping teeth strong and healthy. Below, you’ll find an overview of fillings, a guide to types of fillings and each tooth filling type, the advantages and limitations of each, what to expect during treatment when filling decayed tooth structures, and when it’s time to schedule care. Whether you’re comparing options or planning your next visit, this guide will help you feel informed about your oral health decisions, including common cavity fillers in everyday care.

Overview of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth affected by decay, wear, or small fractures. Once a dentist removes weak or decayed tooth structure, a filling restores shape, strength, and function, and helps prevent future damage. A clinician can evaluate your oral health, coordinate care, and explain the types of dental fillings and which tooth filling type a general dentist may recommend.

The primary goal of a filling is to seal and stabilize the tooth so you can chew, speak, and smile comfortably. By closing off areas where bacteria can enter, fillings reduce the risk of additional decay and protect the inner layers of the tooth. They also help maintain proper alignment and distribute bite forces evenly, factors that are especially important during orthodontic treatment plans. If you’re curious about what fillings are and how teeth filling works, the process focuses on removing decay and placing cavity fillers that bond or fit securely to restore function.

You may need a filling for several reasons, including cavities caused by dental caries, chips or small fractures from everyday use, and erosion from clenching, grinding, or acidic foods and drinks. Older fillings can also wear down, crack, or loosen and may need replacement. Signs that you could benefit from an evaluation include sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets; visible dark spots; rough or chipped edges; or food catching between teeth. If you are considering or undergoing orthodontic treatment, addressing these issues early supports smoother progress and better outcomes. Contact a dental professional to schedule a consultation, they can help you take the next step toward a healthier smile and discuss the types of fillings and cavity fillers that may fit your needs when filling decayed tooth surfaces.

Types of Dental Filling Materials

Understanding the types of dental fillings helps you make informed choices about restoring your smile. Clinicians often collaborate to ensure restorative decisions support your long-term oral health and any orthodontic plan. Knowing each tooth filling type and the general category of cavity fillers can clarify how teeth filling works in different scenarios.

Amalgam fillings: composition and uses ,  Amalgam is a durable blend of metals, typically silver, tin, copper, and mercury, combined to create a strong, long-lasting restoration. It’s often used for back teeth where chewing forces are highest. While amalgam is not tooth-colored, it can be a cost-effective choice for larger cavities and areas that need exceptional strength and wear resistance. This tooth filling type remains a reliable option among the types of fillings for high-stress areas.

Composite fillings: aesthetic advantages ,  Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that blends with natural enamel. It bonds directly to the tooth, allowing conservative removal of damaged tissue and preservation of healthy structure. Composite is popular for visible areas because it can be shaded to match your teeth, making it a great option for small to medium cavities and minor cosmetic repairs. As one of the most common cavity fillers, composite demonstrates how teeth filling works through adhesive bonding.

Glass ionomer fillings: benefits and limitations ,  Glass ionomer materials release fluoride, which can help support enamel and lower the risk of recurrent decay. They are useful for non-load-bearing areas, root surfaces, and pediatric applications. However, they are generally less wear-resistant than composite or amalgam and are not typically recommended for high-stress chewing areas. Resin-modified glass ionomer may be used to improve strength while maintaining fluoride benefits, providing a specialized tooth filling type for targeted needs.

Ceramic and porcelain inlays/onlays ,  Ceramic and porcelain restorations offer excellent wear resistance and natural-looking aesthetics, making them suitable for larger restorations or when durability and appearance are both priorities. Because these restorations are often made in a dental lab, they may require more than one visit. Among the types of dental fillings and indirect cavity fillers, ceramics can be an ideal choice for filling decayed tooth structure that needs extra reinforcement.

Gold restorations ,  Gold remains a benchmark for longevity. It offers outstanding strength and biocompatibility and is particularly effective for patients with heavy bite forces. While more visible and typically higher in cost due to material and lab fabrication, gold restorations can provide decades of reliable service with proper care. This tooth filling type exemplifies durability within the broader types of fillings.

If you have questions about how a filling material may intersect with orthodontic appliances or tooth movement, a coordinated care team can ensure your restorative choices align with your smile goals and clarify what fillings are best suited for your situation.

Pros and Cons of Each Filling Type

Durability and lifespan:  Composite (tooth-colored) fillings bond to enamel and dentin and are ideal for small to medium cavities, typically lasting about 5–10 years with good oral hygiene and routine dental visits. Amalgam (silver-colored) fillings withstand strong chewing forces and often last 10–15 years or longer. Ceramic and porcelain inlays/onlays provide excellent wear resistance and can last a decade or more, especially for larger restorations. Gold restorations are known for exceptional longevity and can frequently exceed 15 years. Recommendations are tailored to your bite, cavity size, habits, and hygiene to help maximize the lifespan of your chosen tooth filling type when filling decayed tooth areas.

Cost considerations:  Costs vary based on material, tooth location, and case complexity. Amalgam is generally budget-friendly. Composite fillings tend to be mid-range and are often covered by insurance for both front and back teeth. Ceramic/porcelain and gold restorations are premium options due to lab fabrication and material costs. Clear estimates and insurance discussions can help you choose among the types of dental fillings and cavity fillers that align with your goals and budget.

Aesthetics and preferences: Composite and ceramic options blend with natural enamel for a discreet appearance, often preferred for visible teeth. Amalgam and gold are more noticeable but may be selected for durability, function, or personal preference. Ultimately, the right choice balances appearance, strength, longevity, cost, and your individual oral health needs. Guidance from your dental team can help you compare types of fillings and decide which tooth filling type best matches your priorities.

Other considerations:  Tooth location and bite forces influence material selection. Back teeth that handle heavy chewing may benefit from stronger materials, while front teeth may prioritize aesthetics. The size of the cavity, your risk of future decay, and any history of clenching or grinding also factor into the recommendation. Understanding what fillings are and how teeth filling works in these contexts supports better decisions.

The Dental Filling Procedure

Knowing the steps involved in getting a filling can help you feel at ease before your appointment. A clinician will evaluate the tooth and may take X-rays to determine the extent and location of decay. The area is isolated and cleaned to keep it dry and free of debris. Decayed or weakened tooth structure is carefully removed, and the cavity is shaped to receive the filling.

Depending on the material chosen from among the types of fillings, additional steps may be used. For composite fillings, the tooth is often etched and treated with a bonding agent. The composite is placed in layers and cured with a special light to harden it. For amalgam, the material is packed into the prepared space and shaped to fit your bite. Ceramic or porcelain restorations may require a digital or physical impression and lab fabrication, with a temporary restoration placed between visits. Once the filling or restoration is in place, your bite is checked, and the surface is polished for a smooth, natural feel. This workflow demonstrates how teeth filling works across different cavity fillers and each tooth filling type when filling decayed tooth structure.

Comfort and aftercare:  Local anesthesia is commonly used to keep you comfortable during treatment. If you experience dental anxiety or have heightened sensitivity, additional comfort options can be discussed in advance. After the procedure, you might notice temporary sensitivity to temperature or pressure for a few days. Avoid very hot, cold, or sticky foods until the numbness wears off, and chew on the opposite side if advised. Continue gentle brushing and flossing around the treated area to keep it clean. If your bite feels uneven once numbness subsides, or if sensitivity lingers beyond about a week, contact your dental office for an adjustment. With proper oral hygiene and routine checkups, your new filling should feel comfortable and function like a natural tooth, regardless of the tooth filling type used.

When to Seek Dental Care

Timely dental visits can prevent minor concerns from becoming complex problems. If you notice lingering sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, sharp pain when biting, visible dark spots or holes, rough or chipped edges on a tooth, or food repeatedly getting trapped in the same place, you may need a filling. These signs often indicate decay or wear that can be addressed with the right types of dental fillings and cavity fillers to restore function and protect the tooth.

Watch for symptoms that may signal complications. Persistent toothache, throbbing pain, gum swelling, prolonged sensitivity that worsens, a cracked or broken tooth, or a filling that feels loose or has fallen out all warrant prompt attention. Additional red flags include bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing, a persistent bad taste, or visible pus near the gumline, possible signs of infection that should be evaluated without delay. Understanding what are fillings and the types of fillings available can help you act quickly when filling decayed tooth areas becomes necessary.

Routine checkups are essential for early detection and prevention. Regular dental visits make it easier to identify decay in its earliest stages, recommend the most appropriate tooth filling type when needed, and ensure existing restorations remain stable and functional. Professional cleanings and exams also help protect enamel, monitor bite alignment, and support overall oral health. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, or it’s been more than six months since your last exam, schedule an appointment to discuss the types of dental fillings that fit your needs.