For years, silver-mercury fillings (Amalgam) were the primary material used by dentists to fill cavities. Today, tooth-colored restorations (Resins) are considered better because of the more natural appearance and still being a durable material. A tooth colored filling is made of a mixture of microscopic ceramic and glass particles dispersed in a plastic resin that can be bonded to teeth.

The material comes in a wide range of shades and can be molded and sculpted to restore form and contour of the teeth. The fact that the resin is bonded means a seal is formed to reduce the chance of leakage.