Firstly, what is a filling?

A filling is essentially a way to restore and protect a damaged tooth. They fill holes caused by tooth decay. Fillings also help prevent further decay by closing off spaces where bacteria can enter.

There are a whole variety of filling types available, each with their own pros and cons.

Amalgam fillings

Formed from of a combination of metals (including silver, tin, copper and mercury), these fillings are incredibly durable and relatively inexpensive. Their main problem is that, because of their dark colour, they are far more noticeable than their composite counterparts.

Composite fillings

Composite fillings can be matched to the colour of your teeth and are practically indistinguishable from the real article to all but the most super of sleuths. They are not ideal for filling large cavities as they can chip and wear down over time. They can also stain and tend only to last for three to ten years. They are, however, very popular as a result of their aesthetic advantages.

CEREC Onlays

An onlay is similar to a dental crown, in that it covers the cusp of a tooth, but will protect and operate like a standard filling. We at Dublin18 Dental Care in South Dublin produce CEREC onlays which, unlike standard onlays which are produced in a separate lab, can be created in house during a single visit. CEREC onlays can be blended to match the colour of your teeth and are very durable.

Fissure Sealants

Sealants are more prevention than cure: The top surfaces of your teeth are covered in pits and fissures which where plaque, safe from the reach of your toothbrush, can build. Fissure sealants essentially form a barrier in these areas, preventing plaque from forming.