A tooth filling or restoration is a treatment option for decayed teeth. The procedure involves removal of the decayed part of the tooth and filling the cavity with a suitable filling material. Tooth fillings can also be used to fill up fractured or chipped teeth and even attrited teeth, to bring it back to its correct contour.

A local anesthetic is administered to numb the area thus preventing any pain or sensitivity and providing comfort to the patient. A drill or other device may be used to remove the decayed part of the tooth. A cavity is formed which is then cleaned to remove debris and bacteria. The pulp is protected using a suitable material on the cavity surface in case of deep cavities.
If a composite filling, a tooth colored restorative material is used to fill the tooth, it is added in increments. After each increment, a special light is projected which cures or hardens the filling material. The filling is then shaped, excess removed and polished to resemble the tooth structure.
Types of filling materials:
There are different types of filling materials depending upon the location of the cavity, type of cavity, the durability and aesthetics required.

• Cast gold: known for its high strength and durability but is expensive and unaesthetic especially in the anterior region.
• Silver amalgam: durable and has high strength, though unaesthetic. May also discolor the tooth, cause cracks on the tooth and allergies to the material are also seen.
• Composites: widely used due to its aesthetics. Also bonds well to tooth structure, though not as durable and tend to chip and stain easily. Not as costly as amalgam teeth fillings.
• Porcelain/ceramic and GIC- glass ionomer cement are also used.

Indirect fillings are used when a major amount of the tooth structure is lost. The dental filling is constructed outside the tooth and inserted in to the cavity thus is indirect rather than direct condensation of the filling material into the cavity. An impression of the cavity is taken and the restoration is prepared in the lab. It is then fitted in the patient’s next visit. Inlays and onlays are the commonly used indirect restorations.
Problems with dental fillings
Pain and sensitivity: this is common following a cavity filling and usually subsides within 2-4 weeks. If the sensitivity doesn’t subside, a dentist may need to be consulted. Pain while biting on the filled tooth, toothache or referred pain may indicate a problem with the tooth fillings and definitely a consultation with the dentist.
Allergic reaction: this is a rare condition and only affects 1% of the population. The allergy could be due to the mercury or any one of the metals present in an amalgam filling, causing itching and rashes.
Long term problems: cracks or worn down restorations may pose problem overtime due to excessive force exerted. The tooth restoration may also fall off due to fracture or decay of the remaining tooth structure.