There IS a difference between a filling and a restoration. A "filling" just fills a hole in the tooth without regard to form and function. It is done quickly and won't cost much. But you get what you pay for because longevity is compromised as the tooth is susceptible to recurrent decay. That's what the brown stain is around the filling in the left picture. A "restoration" on the other hand restores the tooth to normal, physiologic form and function. This restoration on the right took 2 hours to complete and was sealed to the tooth while isolated with a "rubber dam", a device that keeps the tooth totally clean and dry. Moisture and saliva contamination while sealing the restoration can cause early failure. A restoration looks more natural and you can expect many years of trouble free service.

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