Materials called dental fillings are used to fix and restore teeth that have been affected by cavities or decay. A cavity refers to a hole or structural damage to a
tooth brought on by bacterial activity. The dentist will eliminate the decayed tooth
material and fill the empty space with a dental filling. This procedure aids in
preserving the tooth structural integrity and halting more deterioration.
Dental fillings can be made from a variety of materials; the choice is based on the patient preferences, the location of the tooth, and the degree of decay.

Dental fillings that are often used include:

1. Amalgam Fillings: A combination of copper, tin, silver, and mercury are used to make them. Although amalgam fillings are long-lasting and have been utilized for a long time, some individuals could be worried about the mercury content.

2. Composite Fillings: A combination of glass or quartz particles and plastic resin is used to make them. Compared to amalgam fillings, they are a more aesthetically acceptable solution since they can be matched to the color of the natural tooth.
Small to mid-sized cavities are a good fit for composite fillings.

3. Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings: These are fillings composed of ceramic materials or porcelain that match the color of teeth. They work better for front teeth and other prominent places and are more stain-resistant than composite fillings.

4. Glass Ionomer Fillings: An organic acid and glass are combined to create these.
They are frequently utilized on less stressed parts of the mouth, like infant teeth or
the roots of teeth.
Before prescribing a particular kind of filling, the dentist will assess the patient oral health, the location of the tooth, and the depth of the decay. The objective is to preserve the tooth long-term usefulness, stop additional decay, and repair the tooth structure..