Tooth-Colored vs. Silver Fillings: What's the Difference?

If you need a filling, you may be wondering what it will be made of and whether the old silver fillings you already have should be replaced. Here is a straightforward comparison.

Silver amalgam fillings

Amalgam, the traditional “silver” filling, is a mix of metals including mercury. It has been used for well over a century because it is strong and inexpensive. It has real downsides, though. It is dark and obvious, especially on teeth that show when you smile or laugh. It does not bond to the tooth, so more healthy structure has to be removed to hold it in place. And over many years, metal fillings can expand and contract with temperature, which can contribute to cracks.

Tooth-colored composite fillings

Composite is a tooth-colored material that we shade to match your natural enamel, so the repair is essentially invisible. Two advantages stand out:

• It bonds to the tooth. Because composite chemically bonds, we can often remove less healthy tooth structure, which helps keep the tooth strong.
• It looks natural. There is no dark line at the gumline and no metal flashing when you smile.

Composite is mercury-free, and for the vast majority of cavities it is strong and long-lasting. For very large areas of damage, a crown or onlay may protect the tooth better, and we will tell you honestly when that is the case.

Should you replace your old silver fillings?

Not necessarily just for looks, though many patients choose to. The clear reasons to replace an amalgam filling are if it is cracked, worn, leaking, or has decay forming underneath it. If you have older metal fillings, we will keep an eye on them at your checkups and let you know if and when replacement makes sense.

Our approach

We use tooth-colored composite for fillings because it is conservative, mercury-free, and natural-looking, which fits our overall philosophy of preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible. Most fillings are completed comfortably in a single visit.

Have a tooth that needs attention, or old fillings you would like to update? Request an appointment or call (925) 935-1933.