Tooth Fillings

Tooth Fillings are substances used to restore teeth following tooth decay or injury. They can be direct or indirect fillings. Direct fillings are made with usually with resin material. There are other materials which can be used to restore to the depending on individual circumstances and clinical presentation. They are also selected depending on the size of defect and missing area. They prolong the life of your natural teeth. Fillings fill in openings on a tooth after a cavity is removed or a crack has occurred. Fillings are made of various materials and have different strengths. Advances in dentistry have made fillings less obvious than ever before.

Direct fillings, often referred to as composite resin fillings or “composites,” are made from a combination of resins and glass or quartz. They are ideal for restoring small to mid-size spaces and are particularly effective in areas with moderate chewing forces. These fillings are designed to match the color of your teeth, making them barely noticeable. While they offer a natural appearance, composite fillings may require more maintenance and regular cleaning compared to amalgam or silver fillings. For front teeth, composite fillings can also be shaped to enhance aesthetics, such as altering the length or color of the teeth, acting as a less expensive alternative to ceramic veneers.

In cases where a tooth is severely damaged, involving multiple surfaces or extensive loss of tooth structure, indirect restorations or onlays are used. These can be made from composites reinforced with glass fiber, ceramics, or completely ceramic materials. For areas subject to heavy biting forces, metal indirect restorations may be recommended due to their durability. Ceramic onlays offer the advantage of reproducing the exact shape and bite of the missing tooth, forming tight contacts between adjacent teeth, which facilitates easier cleaning and flossing.