When a tooth starts decaying, it will start appearing black. Initially there will be no pain or sensation but as the bacteria corrode the tooth, sensitivity to sweet and cold will be evident.

The dentist will then excavate the decay, clean it with the drill and fill the tooth with a filling material. The famous black filling was used in the olden days but it has been replaced by the white filling which is equally durable and is better aesthetically. These are called tooth coloured fillings or composites. These can also be used when a front tooth fractures or decays…. and no one will be able to tell the difference between the tooth and the filling.

The location, extent of the decay, cost of the filling material and the dentists recommendation will determine the type of filling that is best suited for you.