A filling is a generic term used to describe a material used to fill a cavity on a tooth. After decay has been removed from the surface of a tooth, there are many materials that can be used to fill the cavity. The choice of material is dependant on many factors: the size of the cavity, which area on the tooth and the aesthetic concern of the patient. The century old filling called amalgam, also known as sliver filling, has been used by dentist till today. Durability is one of amalgams strengths but is poor in esthetics. Over many years, amalgam fillings will likely corrode causing leakage and promoting decay under these fillings. In the last 20 years, resin fillings, also known to the public as white fillings or tooth colored fillings, have been used in the place of amalgams. The durability of the resin filling is now very similar to the amalgam and has the esthetics and functionality making the resin filling a preferred choice. The resin filling is not prone to corrosion but does cost marginally more than amalgam.

When cavities are large and resins are too weak to support the tooth structure, then inlays or on-lays are the preferred choice for restoring the tooth. A dental laboratory will fabricate an in-lay or on-lay and once cemented, will help strengthen the existing tooth structure. In-lays and on-lays can be fabricated from either porcelain or gold alloy. Your dentist can advice you on which material will be the best for your tooth.