What are they?

A filling replaces part of a tooth that has been lost because of decay or accidental damage.
Unlike silver (amalgam) fillings, white fillings stick to teeth so they can be used to repair teeth (especially front teeth) that have been chipped, broken or decayed. They can sometimes be used in back teeth if there is not too much decay or damage.
You will probably hear the dentist talk about 'composite' or 'glass ionomer' - these are just different types of white filling.
In larger cavities, ceramic inlays are usually advised. These require an impression for the laboratory to construct the inlay prior to fitting two weeks later. A provisional acrylic inlay is placed in the interim period.
Ceramic inlays are used to restore the tooth to its correct contours and are especially useful in preventing food impaction between the teeth. The aesthetics of these restorations is especially good.

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