Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments used to repair teeth affected by cavities and minor damage. But with different types of dental fillings available, choosing the right material can sometimes feel confusing. Should you choose composite resin, glass ionomer, amalgam, or a more durable ceramic restoration?
The answer depends on the size of the cavity, the location of the affected tooth, your bite, and how much healthy tooth structure remains. Each dental filling material has different benefits, limitations, and cost considerations.
At Terry Fox Dental Centre, we help patients understand their restorative options and choose treatments based on their individual dental needs. In this guide, we explain the common types of dental fillings, how they compare, what affects their cost in Canada, and when an existing filling may need replacement.
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restorative material used to repair a tooth after the dentist removes decay or damaged tooth structure. It fills the affected area, restores the tooth’s shape, and helps it function normally when you bite and chew.
When bacteria damage the tooth’s enamel and create a cavity, the affected area may need treatment before the decay spreads deeper into the tooth.
Dentists commonly recommend fillings for:
- Tooth decay: Repairing cavities caused by bacteria and plaque buildup.
- Minor chips and cracks: Restoring certain areas of damaged tooth structure.
- Worn tooth surfaces: Repairing selected areas affected by excessive wear.
- Damaged existing fillings: Replacing restorations that have cracked, loosened, or worn down.
- Exposed root surfaces: Protecting certain areas affected by decay or sensitivity.
A dental filling helps preserve your natural tooth and restore its function. However, not every cavity requires the same type of filling material. Your dentist will assess the tooth and determine which restoration is most appropriate.
Common Types of Dental Fillings
There are several types of dental fillings and restorative materials used in modern dentistry. Four broad categories patients commonly encounter are composite resin, glass ionomer, amalgam, and indirect restorative materials.
Porcelain and gold are also used for custom-made restorations, particularly when a tooth needs more extensive repair than a conventional filling can provide.
Here is how the different options compare.
1. Composite Resin Fillings (White Fillings)
Composite resin fillings are made from a tooth-coloured dental resin reinforced with tiny glass or ceramic particles. Their natural appearance makes them a popular option for patients who want their fillings to blend with their surrounding teeth.
During treatment, the dentist applies a bonding agent to the prepared tooth, places the composite material in layers, and hardens it using a special curing light. The filling is then shaped and polished to restore the tooth’s natural contour.
Advantages of composite fillings:
- Natural appearance that can be matched to surrounding teeth.
- Bond directly to tooth structure.
- Allow conservative preparation in many cases.
- Suitable for selected front and back teeth.
- Usually completed in one appointment.
- Can sometimes be repaired if minor damage occurs.
Disadvantages of composite fillings:
- May wear or chip over time.
- Require careful placement and moisture control.
- Can stain or change appearance over time.
- May not be suitable for every large cavity or heavily loaded tooth.
Best suited for: Small to moderate cavities where preserving natural tooth structure and achieving a tooth-coloured appearance are important.
At Terry Fox Dental Centre, composite resin is our standard material for most fillings. We use bonded, tooth-coloured restorations to repair cavities while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
2. Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made from a combination of glass powder and an organic acid. They are tooth-coloured materials that chemically bond to tooth structure and release small amounts of fluoride over time.
Their properties make them useful in certain situations where fluoride release and the location of the cavity are important considerations.
Advantages of glass ionomer fillings:
- Tooth-coloured appearance.
- Release fluoride, which may help reduce the risk of further decay.
- Chemically bond to tooth structure.
- Useful for selected cavities near the gumline.
- Can be appropriate for certain children’s dental restorations.
Disadvantages of glass ionomer fillings:
- Generally less resistant to wear than composite resin.
- Not ideal for large restorations exposed to heavy chewing pressure.
- May not provide the same aesthetic finish as composite materials.
- Their suitability depends on the location and size of the cavity.
Best suited for: Selected small restorations, cavities near or below the gumline, and certain children’s dental treatments.
At Terry Fox Dental Centre, glass ionomer is one of the materials we consider for children’s teeth and cavities at or below the gumline when clinically appropriate.
3. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)
Dental amalgam fillings, commonly known as silver fillings, are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury.
They have been used in dentistry for decades because of their durability and ability to withstand chewing pressure. They are traditionally associated with back teeth.
Advantages of amalgam fillings:
- Durable and resistant to chewing forces.
- Long history of clinical use.
- Generally less expensive than certain alternative materials.
- Usually completed in one appointment.
Disadvantages of amalgam fillings:
- Their silver colour does not blend with natural teeth.
- They do not bond to tooth structure in the same way as composite resin.
- Traditional preparation may require removing additional healthy tooth structure.
- Their appearance may be undesirable for patients who prefer natural-looking restorations.
Best suited for: Certain restorations where durability and cost are important considerations and the material is clinically appropriate.
Are amalgam fillings safe?
Dental amalgam is considered safe for most people when used appropriately. However, Health Canada and other health authorities recognize that certain individuals may need additional precautions or alternative materials.
Patients who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or have particular medical circumstances should discuss their options with their dentist.
If you already have an intact amalgam filling, it generally does not need to be removed simply because it contains mercury. Unnecessary removal can expose you to additional dental treatment and loss of healthy tooth structure.
Terry Fox Dental’s approach: We are an amalgam-free dental practice and do not place new silver amalgam fillings. Instead, we focus on tooth-coloured restorative materials, including composite resin and glass ionomer, based on each patient’s needs.
4. Other Restorative Materials: Porcelain and Gold
Not every damaged tooth can be repaired with a conventional filling placed directly into the cavity. When a larger area of the tooth needs restoration, your dentist may recommend an indirect restoration.
Indirect restorations are custom-designed to fit the tooth and then bonded or cemented into position. Porcelain and gold are two materials used for these restorations.
Porcelain or Ceramic Restorations
Porcelain and ceramic restorations offer a natural-looking alternative for repairing teeth with more extensive damage.
They are commonly used for inlays and onlays.
- Inlays: Fit within the cusps of a tooth without covering them.
- Onlays: Extend over one or more cusps to restore a larger portion of the chewing surface.
Advantages include a natural appearance, good stain resistance, and durability when properly designed and maintained.
However, ceramic restorations generally cost more than conventional direct fillings and require precise planning and fitting.
Terry Fox Dental Centre offers CEREC technology to design and mill suitable ceramic restorations in-house. Depending on the condition of your tooth, a porcelain inlay or onlay may be recommended instead of a traditional filling or full crown.
Gold Restorations
Gold restorations are custom-made from a dental alloy containing gold and other metals. They are known for their strength, durability, and resistance to wear.
Advantages include excellent durability and the ability to withstand substantial chewing forces.
However, gold restorations are more expensive than many conventional filling options, have a noticeable metallic appearance, and generally require custom fabrication.
They may be considered for selected larger restorations, particularly in back teeth, when long-term durability is a priority.
How Dentists Choose a Filling Material
There is no single best dental filling material for every patient. Your dentist considers several factors before recommending a particular option.
The goal is to restore the tooth’s function, protect the remaining healthy structure, and provide a restoration that suits your long-term dental needs.
Here are the main factors dentists consider:
1. Size and Depth of the Cavity
A small cavity may be repaired with a conventional composite filling. However, a larger cavity may require an inlay, onlay, or crown to provide adequate support.
2. Location of the Tooth
Front teeth are more visible, so appearance may be an important consideration. Back teeth experience greater chewing pressure and may require materials that can withstand heavier biting forces.
3. Remaining Healthy Tooth Structure
The amount of natural tooth structure remaining influences which restoration will provide sufficient support. Preserving healthy tooth structure is an important consideration when selecting treatment.
4. Bite Pressure and Grinding Habits
Patients who clench or grind their teeth may place additional pressure on fillings. The dentist will consider these habits when selecting a suitable material.
5. Appearance and Personal Preferences
Some patients prefer tooth-coloured restorations that blend with their natural teeth. Others may prioritize durability or have specific material preferences.
6. Budget and Insurance Coverage
The cost of different restorative materials varies. Your dentist can explain the available options and help you understand the associated fees and insurance considerations.
Ultimately, the right filling material is the one that meets your tooth’s clinical needs while taking your preferences into account.
What Affects the Cost of a Dental Filling?
Dental filling costs in Canada vary depending on the type of material, the size of the cavity, the number of tooth surfaces involved, and the complexity of treatment.
There is no single price that applies to every filling because each tooth requires an individual assessment.
The following factors can influence the overall cost:
1. Filling Material
Composite resin, glass ionomer, amalgam, porcelain, and gold restorations have different material and placement costs.
2. Size of the Cavity
A small cavity generally requires less restorative material and treatment time than a larger area of damage.
3. Number of Tooth Surfaces
A restoration involving one tooth surface may cost less than one involving several surfaces.
4. Tooth Location
The location of the affected tooth can influence the complexity of treatment and the material selected.
5. Additional Dental Treatment
If decay has progressed deeper into the tooth, additional treatment may be required. For example, extensive damage may require root canal therapy followed by a crown rather than a conventional filling.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Fillings?
Many private dental insurance plans cover eligible restorative treatments, including dental fillings. However, coverage varies according to your policy, annual maximums, deductibles, and treatment limitations.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) also provides coverage for eligible dental filling services, subject to its eligibility requirements, applicable coverage rules, co-payments, and any potential additional charges.
Before treatment, ask your dental clinic to review your coverage and provide an estimate of your expected costs.
For treatment information and local appointment details, visit our dental fillings service page.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material, the size and location of the restoration, your oral hygiene habits, and the amount of pressure placed on the tooth.
Some fillings last many years, while others may need repair or replacement sooner.
Several factors influence how long your dental filling lasts:
- Oral hygiene: Brushing twice daily and flossing regularly help prevent new decay around restorations.
- Diet: Frequent consumption of sugary foods and acidic drinks can increase the risk of dental problems.
- Teeth grinding: Clenching and grinding can put additional pressure on fillings.
- Filling size: Larger restorations may be more vulnerable to wear or fracture.
- Regular dental examinations: Routine visits help identify problems before they become more serious.
Even if your filling feels comfortable, it is important to have it checked during regular dental examinations. Some issues can develop around or underneath a restoration without causing immediate pain.
When Should an Old Filling Be Replaced?
Dental fillings do not necessarily need replacement after a specific number of years. If a filling is intact, functioning properly, and free from recurrent decay, it may continue to serve you well.
However, your dentist may recommend repairing or replacing an existing filling if there are signs of damage.
Common warning signs include:
- Cracks or chips: Visible damage may affect the filling’s ability to protect the tooth.
- Loose fillings: A filling that moves or falls out needs prompt dental attention.
- New tooth sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet foods, or pressure may indicate a problem.
- Pain when biting: Discomfort when chewing can indicate damage or an issue with the restoration.
- Decay around the filling: New cavities can develop around the edges of an existing restoration.
- Worn filling surfaces: Wear can affect the filling’s shape and function.
A damaged filling should be assessed before the problem progresses.
Depending on the condition of the tooth, your dentist may recommend a repair, a new filling, an inlay or onlay, or a dental crown.
If you have an old silver filling, replacement with a tooth-coloured material may be possible when clinically appropriate. However, healthy fillings should not be removed unnecessarily.
When Is a Filling Not Enough? Filling vs. Inlay vs. Crown
A conventional filling works well for many small and moderate cavities. However, when a large portion of a tooth is damaged, a filling alone may not provide sufficient support.
Your dentist may recommend a different restoration depending on the amount of remaining healthy tooth structure.
| Treatment | What it does | When it may be recommended |
| Dental filling | Repairs a smaller area of damage | Small to moderate cavities |
| Inlay | Restores the area within the tooth’s cusps | Larger damage contained within the cusps |
| Onlay | Covers one or more damaged cusps | More extensive damage requiring additional support |
| Dental crown | Covers the entire visible portion of the tooth | Significant structural damage or weakening |
If decay reaches the pulp inside your tooth, you may also need root canal therapy before the tooth can be restored.
For more extensive structural damage, a same-day dental crown may be recommended.
Terry Fox Dental Centre uses CEREC technology to design and mill suitable ceramic crowns, inlays, and onlays in-house.
How to Care for Your Dental Fillings
Good oral hygiene helps protect both your fillings and your natural teeth.
Follow these simple habits:
- Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day to clean between your teeth.
- Limit frequent sugary snacks and acidic drinks.
- Avoid chewing ice or biting hard objects.
- Wear a night guard if your dentist recommends one for grinding or clenching.
- Attend regular dental examinations and cleanings.
- Contact your dentist if a filling feels loose, breaks, or causes persistent discomfort.
Taking care of your restorations can help reduce the risk of additional decay and the need for more extensive treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
1. What are the four main types of dental fillings?
Four broad categories commonly discussed are composite resin, glass ionomer, amalgam, and indirect restorative materials. Porcelain and gold are examples of materials used for custom restorations such as inlays and onlays. The appropriate option depends on the condition of the tooth.
2. What is the best material for dental fillings?
There is no universally best filling material. Composite resin is suitable for many small and moderate cavities, while glass ionomer may be appropriate in selected situations. Porcelain and gold restorations may be considered for more extensive damage. Your dentist will recommend a material based on your clinical needs.
3. Are white fillings better than silver fillings?
White composite fillings offer a natural appearance and bond directly to tooth structure. Silver amalgam fillings have a long history of durability. The most appropriate choice depends on the tooth, the size of the cavity, and individual circumstances.
4. Are composite fillings suitable for back teeth?
Yes. Composite resin can be used on back teeth when the size and location of the cavity make it appropriate. Your dentist will assess chewing forces and the remaining tooth structure before recommending the material.
5. Can an old silver filling be replaced with a white filling?
Yes. An existing amalgam filling can often be replaced with a tooth-coloured composite restoration if the tooth is suitable. However, an intact and healthy amalgam filling does not automatically need replacement.
6. How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan varies according to the filling material, size, location, oral hygiene, and biting forces. Some restorations last many years, but regular dental examinations are important for identifying wear, damage, and recurrent decay.
7. Do dental fillings hurt?
Dental fillings are generally comfortable procedures. Local anaesthesia can numb the affected area when needed. Some patients experience temporary sensitivity afterward, which usually improves over time.
8. How long does a dental filling appointment take?
Many straightforward composite fillings can be completed in a single appointment. The exact time depends on the cavity size, the number of surfaces involved, and whether additional treatment is needed.
9. Can a cavity become too large for a filling?
Yes. If decay damages too much of the tooth structure, a conventional filling may not provide sufficient support. Your dentist may recommend an inlay, onlay, crown, or root canal treatment depending on the condition of the tooth.
10. Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan cover dental fillings?
The CDCP includes eligible dental filling services, subject to its eligibility requirements, coverage rules, applicable co-payments, and potential additional charges. Patients should confirm their individual coverage before treatment.
11. Should an old dental filling be replaced if it does not hurt?
Not necessarily. A filling that is intact, functioning properly, and free from recurrent decay may not require replacement. Your dentist can examine it and recommend treatment if there are signs of damage or deterioration.
12. Where can I get dental fillings in Kanata or Stittsville?
Terry Fox Dental Centre provides tooth-coloured composite fillings and selected glass ionomer restorations for patients in Kanata, Stittsville, and surrounding communities. Our team can examine your tooth, explain the available options, and help you understand the treatment process.
Restore Your Smile with Personalized Dental Care
Choosing the right dental filling is about more than selecting a material. It means finding a restoration that protects your natural tooth, restores comfortable chewing, and supports your long-term oral health.
At Terry Fox Dental Centre, we provide personalized restorative dental care using modern techniques and tooth-coloured filling materials. Whether you need a new filling, have concerns about an existing restoration, or want to understand which treatment is right for your tooth, our team is here to help.
If you are looking for dental filling treatment in Kanata or Stittsville, visit Terry Fox Dental Centre at 600 Terry Fox Drive, Suite 205, Kanata, Ontario.
Call (613) 599-8555 or book your dental appointment online.
