If you have a cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed tooth material and place the filling in the hole. The filling material is placed in layers, and each layer is hardened with a special light before the next layer is added. Dental fillings are used to treat cavities because a dentist wants to remove the decayed part (the pit) and fill it to stop any further damage from occurring. While there aren’t ways to draw a cavity without a filling, there are ways to reverse the decay. However, if the cavity is large or there is extensive decay, a crown (cap) may be necessary to restore the tooth. A crown is placed over the entire tooth and is made from various materials, including gold, porcelain, or a metal alloy. Some people are concerned about the safety of dental amalgam (silver) fillings because they contain mercury. Many people are apprehensive about trips to the dentist because filling cavities can be scary and uncomfortable. In the past, dentists have filled every cavity. However, these alternatives may vary depending on the size and depth of the cavity, your own risk of getting cavities, and how well you take care of your teeth here at Monahan Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.