Skip to Main Content

Types of Dental Fillings

Do you have a cavity that needs a dental filling? Several different types of materials can be used to complete the task. Gold, porcelain, amalgam and composite are some of the most commonly used filling materials. Here, our Nepean dentists explain the differences between them to help you decide which might be better for you. 

A variety of materials can be used to make fillings for teeth, including gold, porcelain, amalgam and composite. Each of these materials has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, in addition to being long-lasting. 

Composite Fillings

These plastic tooth-coloured fillings look and feel natural when placed in a patient's mouth. 

Since composite fillings are the same colour as your teeth, they can blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile. These materials are also relatively easy to shape and mould onto teeth. They bond naturally to the teeth, so your dentist will not have to remove as much existing enamel during the preparation process. 

To place a composite filling, your dentist will first remove decay from the tooth, then apply bonding material to the inside of the cavity. Thin layers of composite resin are then poured into the hole. The dentist uses a curing light to harden each layer into a solid state. When the final layer of the filling has hardened, your dentist will shape the filling so that it matches the shape of your natural teeth. 

Porcelain Fillings

Hard and brittle porcelain fillings are combined with metal to create a strong, tooth-coloured dental restoration. 

A porcelain filling is created in a dental lab and returned to your dentist, who cements it into place in your mouth. Typically, at least two dental appointments will need to be scheduled to complete the procedure. 

Amalgam Fillings

Silver in colour, amalgam fillings are frequently used to fill teeth located at the back of the mouth. They are a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, copper, and tin, among others.

While the silver colour may not be appealing to people who prefer a more natural appearance, they are a long-lasting option for molars that are subjected to a great deal of wear and tear.

Gold Fillings

In order to create a cast gold filling, a model of your tooth must be created. A mixture of gold and other metals, such as silver and copper, is used to create these pieces.

Much like the porcelain fillings, this type of dental filling is made in a dental lab and then returned to your dentist, who cements it into place inside your mouth. As a result, this type of filling typically requires at least two dental appointments to complete.

To find out more about the composite dental fillings that are available, contact our Nepean dentists today.

New Patients Always Welcome

Looking for a dentist in Nepean? We're accepting new patients at our dental clinic! Contact us to get started today.

Request Appointment

(613) 825-8900 Contact