Your dentist can advise you on the types of fillings that are right for you, taking into account the size and location of the cavity, your dental history, cosmetic concerns and cost.

Tooth-colored fillings are available now in composite resins that are natural-colored, plastic materials (made of glass and resin) that are used both to fill and to repair defects in the teeth. They can be matched to look like your natural teeth.

Alloys are combinations of metals that make durable restoration options as well. These include precious metals, like gold and palladium, and non-precious metals such as nickel or chromium.

Porcelain is a natural-looking restoration made of a very strong glass. It is used to make veneers, crowns, inlays, onlays or the artificial teeth in bridges and dentures. Porcelain can be blended to match the color of adjacent teeth. Crowns can be made entirely of porcelain or made with a metal inner lining, which strengthens the crown.