Dental fillings are restorative treatments used to repair teeth damaged by cavities, cracks, or minor wear. When tooth decay creates a small hole in the enamel, a filling is used to restore the tooth’s structure and prevent further damage. Fillings help protect the tooth from bacteria while allowing it to function normally during chewing and speaking.

The procedure begins with the dentist removing the decayed portion of the tooth using specialized dental tools. Once the damaged area is cleaned and prepared, a filling material is placed into the cavity to restore the shape of the tooth. Common materials used for fillings include composite resin, porcelain, amalgam, and glass ionomer. Composite fillings are widely preferred because they match the natural color of the teeth.