Amalgam (silver coloured) vs. composite (tooth-coloured) fillings

Can I replace my silver fillings with white ones?

For over 150 years standard fillings have been made out of a silvery-grey material called ‘amalgam’. This is still one of the strongest and longest lasting materials available for fillings. However, many people find it unattractive and some are even concerned about possible health risks.

There are now alternatives to amalgam fillings. If a tooth requires a filling or repairing, composite (tooth-coloured) fillings are now replacing many old amalgam fillings. The new filling materials mean it is much easier to find a perfect match for the shade of a particular tooth. In most cases, the results are impressive, and it is almost impossible to see the filling.

What is a composite filling?

Composite filling is resin based and is applied as a putty-like material. This can be moulded to the exact shape of the tooth and is then set using a blue curing light. It can be matched exactly to the shade of your tooth and most are now as strong as amalgam, proving to be a successful alternative.

What is a compomer filling?

Compomer filling material is very much like composite but contains a glass-like material which releases fluoride. It is mixed in the surgery and set with a blue curing light.

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