Dentists have several choices to select materials for repairing missing, damaged or decayed teeth. For minor damages, fillings are preferred.

Although there are many new materials and methods available, some old and time tested materials and methods are used. This includes the use of amalgam fillings for the repair of badly damaged back teeth.

When there is tooth decay, dentists remove the decay, clean it and then disinfect it. Fillings are then used as restoration materials. They are used to repair cracks or broken areas and to replace parts that have been worn down. If the decay is deep and has reached the root, a root canal treatment is done to remove the decay. The space left by the decay is filled using the appropriate filling.

Dental fillings come in various types, depending on the size of the space to be filled. The patient’s choice with regard to aesthetics and cost is also taken into consideration. The different types of dental fillings available are silver or Amalgam filling and composite resin filling. These are the most commonly used. Composite fillings are also known as white fillings. Recently, ceramic fillings are also used.

Amalgam fillings are also known as silver fillings. They were traditionally used as fillings for the teeth. They are still the most commonly used fillings. They are least expensive and are so durable. This filling type is used for filling damaged or decayed back teeth.

This is made of silver and mercury. It is the most commonly used as it is the least expensive and most durable. Amalgam fillings are mainly used as filling for the back teeth as they are subject to maximum pressure under chewing and biting. Recently, there are concerns about the use of mercury in amalgam fillings.