Dental fillings are restorative materials dentists use to repair and restore teeth that decay, cavities, or fractures have damaged. The primary purpose of a dental filling is to restore the tooth's function, shape, and appearance while preventing further decay or damage.

1. Amalgam: A silver-coloured alloy of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Amalgam fillings are durable and have been used for many years.
2. Composite Resin: Tooth-colored composite resin fillings are popular because they can be matched to the tooth's natural colour, providing an aesthetically pleasing result. They are often used for front teeth and visible areas.
3. Gold: Gold fillings are highly durable and can last many years. They are usually used in areas of the mouth where aesthetics are not a primary concern.
4. Glass Ionomer: These fillings are made from a combination of glass and an organic acid. They are often used for small fillings in low-stress areas of the mouth.