Dental fillings are restorative treatments used to repair teeth that have been damaged by cavities, small fractures, or wear. When tooth decay creates a hole in the enamel, a filling is placed to restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and function. Fillings help protect the tooth from further decay and allow 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 affected area is thoroughly cleaned and prepared, a filling material is placed into the cavity. Several types of materials may be used for fillings, including composite resin, porcelain, amalgam, and glass ionomer. Composite fillings are commonly used because they match the natural color of teeth.