When your tooth has a cavity or an area of decay or is cracked or otherwise damaged, our Los Angeles dentist will use a dental filling to repair it. Dental fillings can help protect the weakened area of the tooth from further decay or damage and in some circumstances may even strengthen the tooth.

Dental fillings are generally chosen for their strength, durability, and aesthetics. A filling can be made of amalgam material, or it can be made of porcelain, composite resin, or glass ionomer. The latter three are white or tooth colored, while the former tends to be silver colored.

Silver fillings are often favored for molars and are capable of withstanding extremely strong chewing forces. Silver fillings generally last as many as 10 to 15 years, but because they require the removal of healthy tooth structure along with the diseased tooth structure, they ultimately weaken the tooth. A replacement filling may weaken the tooth to the point the tooth may be lost entirely.
White fillings provide a more natural match for the tooth and are often favored for this reason alone. They bond chemically to the tooth, so little healthy tooth structure needs to be removed during the filling process. In fact, the filling actually strengthens the tooth. White dental fillings may be more likely to wear out earlier unless they are properly cared for. White fillings are often an especially good choice for front teeth or to repair chips or cracks in teeth.

If you have a cavity or other damage to your tooth or teeth requiring a filling or restoration, it’s essential that you talk to our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist about your options and which may be most appropriate for you and your oral health.