Teeth fillings are commonly called dental fillings, tooth fillings, and cavity fillings. They are also considered a type of dental restoration.
Common Names and Terms for Teeth Fillings
When a tooth is damaged by decay (often called a cavity), a common treatment involves removing the decayed portion and filling the space to restore the tooth's shape and function. This procedure and the material used are known by several names.
Based on common usage and dental terminology, the exact answer for what a teeth filling is called includes:
- Dental fillings: This is a very widely used term.
- Tooth fillings: As referenced, this is another common and accurate term.
- Cavity fillings: This name specifically refers to fillings used to treat cavities.
These terms essentially refer to the same procedure and material used to fill a void in a tooth.
Dental Restorations: A Broader Term
It's important to understand that dental restorations is a broader term in dentistry. As noted in the reference, this term encompasses a range of treatments designed to restore damaged or missing teeth. While dental fillings are a primary type of restoration, the term dental restorations also includes other procedures such as:
- Inlays
- Onlays
- Dental Bridges
- Dental Crowns
So, while a dental filling is a type of dental restoration, not all dental restorations are fillings. The specific names like dental fillings, tooth fillings, and cavity fillings are used when referring directly to the material placed within a tooth preparation.
In summary, if you hear someone mention a "teeth filling," they are likely referring to a dental filling, a tooth filling, or a cavity filling, which are all types of dental restorations.
