Direct restorations - require a single visit to place a filling
directly into a prepared cavity. Materials used for these
filings include dental amalgam, also known as silver fillings;
glass ionomers; resin ionomers; and composite (resin) fillings.
Amalgam fillings have been used for decades, and have been
tested for safety and resistance to wear. Dentists have found
amalgams to be safe, reliable, and effective for restorations.
Glass ionomers are tooth-colored materials made from fine glass
powders and acrylic acids. These are used in small fillings that
do not have to withstand heavy pressure from chewing. Resin
ionomers are made from glass with acrylic acids and acrylic
resin. Both of these types of glass ionomers chemically bond to
the mineral in the tooth. Composites are tooth-colored materials
made from acrylic resin filled with tiny glass or quartz
particles. Composites are more aesthetic, stronger, and more
durable than glass ionomers and can be used on biting surfaces.
They are bonded to the tooth. I