Fillings
To treat a cavity the dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and then "fills" the area on the tooth where the decayed material once lived.

Fillings are also used to repair cracked or broken teeth and teeth that have been worn down from misuse (such as from nail-biting or tooth grinding).  White fillings are an attractive, durable alternative to silver (amalgam) fillings and are made of a strong composite resin that will match your natural tooth color.

Inlays & Onlays
There are two types of of indirect fillings - inlays and onlays.  Inlays and onlays are more durable than traditional fillings, lasting up to 30 years.

Another type of inlay and onlay - direct inlays and onlays -follow the same processes and procedures as the indirect.  The difference is the direct inlays and onlays are made in the dental office and can be placed in one visit.

For more information, please visit:

Web MD:
- Fillings A to Z