When your dentist removes the decay from a tooth he will replace it with a dental filling. Dentists usually prefer one of three types amalgams, composite resin fillings or ionomers. Traditional amalgams can be made from a metal with a touch of mercury added. They are strong enough to fill a large cavity and endure the wear and tear of daily chewing, but they may darken with time and are most often used for the back molars.
Composite resin is also a strong material and can be made to match the color of your teeth.
Ionomers are composed of acrylics and are meant for filling smaller cavities or one between the teeth. Dentists prescribe ionomers for patients who may benefit from the fluoride that they produce.
Symptoms:
You will need a filling if you develop a cavity. Sometimes a filling may be necessary before having a crown installed. An existing filling may need to be replaced.
Diagnosis:
Your dentist will consider the pertinent factors of location, durability as well as the aesthetic value before he determines which kind of filling to use.
Treatment:
The filling will be placed inside your tooth after the decay has been removed. Your dentist will level the filling as the last step in the procedure.