If you’ve been told you need a dental filling, you’re not alone: 92% of Americans have had at least one cavity. Dental fillings are the tried-and-true treatment for treating cavities – and they come in a variety of options. Dental fillings can be made of silver amalgam which contains mercury, composite, porcelain and even gold. You may still have an amalgam filling in your mouth. Composite fillings, which are made of a tooth-colored plastic and glass composite, have become the preferred dental filling due to their natural appearance and durability. If a cavity is too large a dental filling may not be appropriate and a cosmetic inlay or crown may be necessary.