Filling material that is compatible with pulp tissue has been developed; it could be used where previously a root canal or extraction was required, according to 2016 reports. Restoration using dental implants Dental implants are anchors placed in bone, usually made from titanium or titanium alloy. They can support dental restorations which replace missing teeth. Some restorative applications include supporting crowns, bridges, or dental prostheses. Complications Irritation of the nerve When a deep cavity had been filled, there is a possibility that the nerve may have been irritated. This can result in short term sensitivity to cold and hot substances, and pain when biting down on the specific tooth. It may settle down on its own. If not, then alternative treatment such as root canal treatment may be considered to resolve the pain while keeping the tooth. Weakening of tooth structure In situations where a relatively larger amount of tooth structure has been lost or replaced with a filling material, the overall strength of the tooth may be affected. This significantly increases the risk of the tooth fracturing off in the future when excess force is placed on the tooth, such as trauma or grinding teeth at night, leading to cracked tooth syndrome. See also Dental curing light Dental dam Dental fear Dental braces Dental treatment Fixed prosthodontics Gold teeth Oral and maxillofacial surgery Oral and maxillofacial pathology Treatment of knocked-out (avulsed) teeth References External links How Dental Restoration Materials Compare Dental materials Dentistry procedures Restorative dentistry