What are the different materials used in dental fillings?

The different dental filling materials include cast gold, porcelain, silver amalgam, composite resin and glass ionomer, according to WebMD. Dentists determine the type of filling to use by looking at the magnitude of the dental decay and its location, the cost of the fillings and a patient's insurance coverage.

Dentists repair teeth that are broken, have cracks or have been worn down through grinding or nail biting by filling in the decayed area with dental fillings, explains WebMD. As dental fillings help to preserve teeth, a person should practice good oral hygiene, such as flossing daily, using a fluoride toothpaste and visiting the dentist often to maintain them.