Dental cement filling for you will be determined by the extent of the repair, allergies to certain materials, location of filling , and the cost. Considerations for different materials include:
Amalgam (silver) fillings are wear resistant and comparatively inexpensive. However, due to their metallic color, they are more noticeable than porcelain or composite restorations and are not used for visible areas, such as front teeth.
Composite (plastic) resins match the teeth shade and therefore are used where a natural appearance is desired. Composite filling may not be the ideal material for large fillings as they may chip or wear over time. However, they chemically bond to the tooth and are highly aesthetic.
Porcelain inlays or onlays are indirect restorations that are prepared in the dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth. They can be matched to the color of the tooth and resist staining. A porcelain restoration generally covers most of the tooth structure.
If decay or a fracture has damaged a large portion of the tooth structure, a crown/ cap may be recommended. Decay that has reached the nerve may be treated through root canal therapy (in which the damaged pulp is removed).