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 shape and strength while preventing further damage. Fillings protect the tooth from bacteria and allow it to function normally during everyday activities such as chewing and speaking.

The procedure begins with the dentist removing the decayed portion of the tooth using specialized dental instruments. Once the affected area is thoroughly cleaned, a filling material is placed into the cavity to restore the tooth’s structure. Several materials may be used for fillings, including composite resin, porcelain, amalgam, and glass ionomer. Composite fillings are widely preferred because they match the natural color of teeth.