Short answer: The most commonly used types of filling are composite (tooth-coloured), amalgam (silver-coloured) and ceramic inlays/onlays prepared in a laboratory. It cannot be said that any one of them is always the most suitable for every tooth; the size of the cavity, the position of the tooth, the chewing load and expectations are assessed together.
Composite filling
This is a material made of plastic resin and glass-like filler particles that can be matched to the colour of the tooth. It is placed in the mouth layer by layer and hardened with a special light.
- Advantages: It looks close to the colour of the tooth; it bonds to the tooth tissue, so it can generally be placed with less tooth tissue removed; it is mostly completed in a single session.
- Limits: The technique is sensitive and moisture control is required. In very large losses and under heavy chewing loads, wear, staining at the edges or the need for replacement may be seen over time.
Amalgam filling
This silver-coloured filling is made from a mixture of metal alloys and mercury and has been used for many years.
- Advantages: It is durable, less sensitive in a moist environment and can serve for a long time in back teeth.
- Limits: Its colour does not resemble the natural tooth. Because it does not bond directly to the tooth tissue, additional tooth tissue may need to be removed for retention. Because it contains mercury, its use is restricted in some countries; in situations such as pregnancy, children or metal allergy, the clinician may recommend a different material.
Ceramic inlay and onlay
The filling is not prepared in the mouth; after an impression or digital scan, it is made from ceramic in a laboratory or in the clinic and then bonded to the tooth. For details, you can read our article on inlay and onlay fillings.
- Advantages: It can support teeth with large losses; colour match and surface durability can be good.
- Limits: It generally requires two sessions or a special manufacturing device. During preparation, more tooth tissue may need to be shaped than with composite, and the process involves more steps than composite.
What determines the choice?
- The size and depth of the cavity or fracture
- Whether the tooth is in the front or the back region
- Chewing habits and teeth clenching
- Closeness to the gum and whether moisture control is possible
- Aesthetic expectations
- Allergies and health history
What to look out for after a filling
- Avoid eating until the anaesthesia has worn off.
- There may be mild sensitivity to hot and cold in the first days; report any complaint that lasts longer.
- If the filling feels high or the bite is uncomfortable, have it checked.
- Keep the area around the filling clean by brushing and flossing.
For information on sensitivity, you can have a look at our article on tooth sensitivity. The lifespan of a filling varies with the material, the technique, care and biting forces, and fillings can be renewed over time.
When a filling is not enough
If the decay has reached the nerve, root canal treatment may be needed; if the tooth has lost too much structure, other solutions such as a crown may be needed. Catching decay early makes it easier to solve with smaller and more conservative fillings.
What happens before a filling is placed?
- The depth of the decay is assessed by examination and, if necessary, an X-ray.
- If considered necessary, local anaesthesia is applied.
- The decayed tissue is cleaned out and the tooth is prepared for the filling.
- The chosen material is placed, shaped and adjusted to the bite.
- The surface is polished.
Are there other filling options?
Materials such as glass ionomer can be used, especially in baby teeth, in areas close to the gum line or as temporary solutions. They release fluoride, but their wear resistance is generally lower than that of composite or ceramic. For general information on the filling decision in children, you can look at our article on tooth decay in children.
Questions you can ask your clinician when choosing a filling
- Which materials are suitable for my tooth and why?
- How likely is the filling to need replacing, and which signs call for replacement?
- Does the choice change if I have a condition such as teeth clenching?
- What should I pay attention to in care after the filling?
The relationship between fillings and aesthetics
Because colour and shape match are more noticeable in the front teeth, tooth-coloured materials are generally preferred. In the back teeth, chewing forces come to the fore. Even so, every person’s mouth is different; different materials may be chosen for two similar teeth. If aesthetic expectations are broader, options such as laminate veneers can also be discussed with the clinician.
To make a filling last longer
- If you clench your teeth at night, ask your clinician about using a protective splint.
- Avoid habits such as chewing ice, cracking seeds or opening things with your nails.
- Go for a check-up every six months or at the interval your clinician recommends.
Frequently asked questions
Which filling is more durable?
No single type of filling is more durable in every situation. Durability varies with the condition of the tooth, the technique used and the chewing load.
Do I need to replace my old amalgam filling?
A sound filling without decay does not always need to be replaced just because of its colour; the decision is made after an examination.
How long before a filling needs to be renewed?
There is no set time; if decay at the edges, a fracture or wear is seen, the clinician may recommend renewal.
How can you find out what suits you?
The information here is general; the right plan for you is determined by examination and clinical assessment. For appointments and directions, you can look at our contact page. At our clinic in Oran, Çankaya, Ankara, we go through your questions together.
